Ash-glazed sake cup by Masashi Nishibata

Width: 8.0cm Depth: 7.6cm Height: 5.6cm

Ash-glazed sake cup by Tadashi Nishibata

- A tranquil scene painted with ash and flames

This "Ash Glazed Sake Cup" by Nishibata Tadashi is a masterpiece made from the red clay of Tanba and the natural glaze created by long firing, which creates a landscape reminiscent of a landscape painting on the surface of the vessel. The presence of the earth and nature is condensed into this small vessel that fits in the palm of your hand.

Ash glaze brings beauty and beauty

Wood ash has naturally accumulated on the surface of the vessel, and the melted ash glaze creates a soft, flowing pattern. Some of the cloudy, pale blue glaze is slightly transparent, blending with the red clay underneath to create a dreamlike landscape. Where the glaze has gathered, it catches the light and displays a soft luster, giving the vessel a moist, moist appearance.

The contrast between the clay surface and the glaze

The red clay of Tamba, fired at high temperatures, shows a matte texture in the areas where the glaze was not applied, and is fired gently to produce a subdued reddish-brown color. On the other hand, where the glaze has flowed, a glossy finish is layered on top of the uneven texture, creating a variety of shadows depending on the angle from which it is viewed. The clay and glaze each have a harmonious yet opposing appearance, giving each piece its unique appeal.

Beauty that changes in your hands

The shape of the vessels makes use of the natural curves that follow the movement of the fingers, and the wavy edges and slight unevenness stimulate the senses of those who pick them up. Though small, they have a strong presence, and feel firm in the palm of your hand. These vessels change appearance with each use, bringing quiet joy to your daily life.

A personality carved by flame and time

This sake cup was slowly fired by Nishibata in a wood-fired kiln, and the glaze scenery was born from a series of coincidences, such as the movement of the flame, the accumulation of ash, and the placement of the vessel. The greatest appeal of this vessel lies in the "controlled coincidence" that was derived from a certain artistic ability and aesthetic sense, while restraining the artifice and leaving it to nature.

This "ash-glazed sake cup" combines the spirituality of tea ceremony pottery with the familiarity of a tool for everyday use. Please enjoy the tranquility and sensual beauty brought about by the interplay of earth, glaze, and fire in your own time.

A conversation with Tadashi Nishibata