Hagi Ware Sake Cup, Japan
An older Hagi ware sake cup of uncertain date. Its broad, shallow form is of the type known in Japan as a hira-sakazuki. Precise dating of older Hagi ware can be difficult in the absence of an inscription, original box, documented provenance, or other identifying evidence. For this reason, no specific date has been assigned to this piece.
It does not appear to be as early as the Edo period, and a date somewhere between the Meiji period and the early Showa period may be plausible, although this remains uncertain.
The vessel already shows the soft patina and surface character that develop through prolonged use. Its shallow, sharply defined profile is also somewhat unusual among Hagi ware, making it an appealing object regardless of the uncertainty surrounding its date.
The foot is formed in the distinctive split-foot style known in Japan as wari-kodai.
For anyone who enjoys sake, we particularly recommend continuing to use it as a drinking vessel.
Condition & Kintsugi Repair
Six chips around the rim were repaired with natural urushi lacquer and finished with 23.2-karat gold powder.
The glaze shows fine crazing, a natural and characteristic feature of Hagi ware that contributes to the vessel’s accumulated patina and surface character.
Separate from this crazing, there are several faint hairline cracks on the glaze surface. These are not particularly noticeable and do not extend into the ceramic body, so they do not affect the structural integrity of the vessel.
The cup remains suitable for practical use.
Dimensions
Diameter: 8.7–9.0 cm
Height: 3.4–3.7 cm
Foot diameter: 3.1 cm
Measurements are approximate.
Use & Care
Suitable for display as well as practical use as a sake cup.
For those who enjoy sake, we particularly recommend using it regularly as a drinking vessel.
If used, avoid microwave ovens, dishwashers, and prolonged soaking in water. Mild dishwashing detergent may be used. Wash gently by hand and dry thoroughly after use.
Price
500 USD
↳ Acquiring a Work & International Shipping
Works can be viewed in person at the YACCA studio in Fukuoka by appointment.
Item No: VS-008