Tokuda Yasokichi III Kutani Saiyu Yosai Radiant Glaze Sake Cup Guinomi Choko

A Kutani ware sake cup (guinomi / choko) in the saiyu (yosai) radiant color glaze that is instantly recognizable as the work of Tokuda Yasokichi. The layered, luminous gradation of color makes this piece unmistakable. This is believed to be the work of the third generation, marked Masahiko.

Tokuda Yasokichi III (born Masahiko Tokuda, 1933-2009) was a Kutani ware ceramic artist from Komatsu, Ishikawa Prefecture, and grandson of the first Tokuda Yasokichi. He studied under the first and second generation masters and took the name Yasokichi III in 1988. He developed a distinctive technique called 'saiyu' or 'yosai' (radiant color glazing), applying layered gradations of about 70 glaze colors and firing at unusually high temperatures around 1000-1050 degrees C to achieve deep, luminous color effects without traditional painted motifs. He won major awards including the Grand Prize at the 11th Japan Ceramic Art Exhibition in 1991, and in 1997 was designated a Living National Treasure (Important Intangible Cultural Property holder) for 'Saiyu Jiki' (colored glaze porcelain). His works gained international recognition, including exhibition at institutions such as the Metropolitan Museum, and he also contributed to scholarly research on old Kutani ware.

Dimensions: Approx. 9 x 9 cm, height approx. 7 cm, mouth diameter 4 to 4.5 cm

Condition: The original box is not included. There is a small white spot on the base; it is not known whether this was present from the beginning or occurred later.

Please refer to the photos for the item's current appearance and condition.