Kato Toyohisa (加藤豊久), Japanese, b. 1962

A Red-Purple Glazed Cup and Saucer (紅紫釉碗皿)

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

About the work

This cup and saucer by Kato Toyohisa, who later adopted the name 土代久, is a refined example of his sensuous approach to glaze and color. The vessel’s surface is enveloped in a soft red-purple glaze that shifts gently into muted greens and grey tones, creating a mistlike gradient across both cup and saucer. Subtle pooling within the interior adds depth and a quiet iridescence, while the fluid, slightly asymmetrical contours reveal the hand of the maker. The saucer mirrors the same atmospheric color transitions, forming a unified presentation.

Created as part of an exhibition body of work, this set reflects the artist’s continued experimentation with complex glaze interactions and tonal nuance.

Dimensions

Cup: 6.9cm(h) x 11cm(w) x 8.5cm(d)

Plate: 2.2cm(h) x 16.6cm(w) x 16.5cm(d)

Footnote

Kato Toyohisa is a distinguished ceramic artist celebrated for his innovative approach to Mino ware, especially Shino ceramics. He merges traditional techniques with a contemporary style, enhancing the classic aesthetic. Recognized early in his career, Kato received the Rising Star Award at the Asahi Ceramics Exhibition in 1983, along with accolades from the Tajimi City Art Exhibition and other major ceramic exhibitions.