Takeuchi Yasuyuki (竹内靖之), Japanese (b. 1951)

A Bizen Sake Cup (備前酒呑)

Showa Era (1926-1989), Heisei Era (1989-2019) or Reiwa Era (2019-present)

About the work

A robust Bizen sake cup with a deeply fired surface, the body displays a striking interplay of darkened ash glaze and natural kiln effects, producing a rich variation of textures. Its irregular, slightly rounded form gives it a strong sense of individuality, while the fire-kissed highlights and subtle metallic sheen enhance the tactile quality.

The interior shows natural firing marks, creating depth and warmth when viewed in use. With its sturdy proportions and earthy tonality, this vessel embodies the wabi aesthetic central to Bizen ware.

The work is accompanied by its original signed tomobako (wooden storage box), cloth, and paper insert, attesting to authenticity.

Dimensions

5.5cm(h) x 6.6cm(w)

Footnote

Takeuchi Yasuyuki (竹内靖之) is a contemporary Bizen potter trained in both academic and traditional settings. After entering Osaka University of Arts in 1970, he studied at the Bizen Ceramic Center (1975) and apprenticed under Living National Treasures Yamamoto Toshu and Yamamoto Yuichi (1976). In 1982 he established his own climbing kiln and became independent. He has held numerous solo and group exhibitions, including at Asuka Gallery Okayama (1985, 1987, 1990, 1992), Kurashiki Mitsukoshi (1986), Ginza Mitsukoshi (1988, 1990), and Hanshin Department Store (1993). He received the Encouragement Prize at the Okayama Prefectural Art Exhibition in 1992.