Item Description This exquisite shell-shaped wine glass is a remarkable creation by 伊藤賢治 Ito Kenji (1960-2021), one of Japan's most acclaimed blown glass artists. Crafted in beautiful pink glass, this piece showcases the master craftsman's exceptional skill in creating organic forms inspired by nature. The glass displays an elegant spiral shell design, reminiscent of a conch or nautilus, with graceful curves and delicate translucent qualities that capture and refract light beautifully. Ito's work is characterized by his mastery of traditional blown glass techniques combined with innovative artistic expression. Born in Toyama Prefecture in 1960, Ito Kenji established himself as a leading figure in contemporary Japanese glass art. He won the Grand Prix at the Young Glass Art Exhibition in 1990 and subsequently received numerous international awards, including the International Glass Art Exhibition Grand Prize. His works are held in prestigious collections including the Spanish National Glass Museum. Ito founded several studios including the Sai Glass Studio in Kawasaki, the Karuizawa Glass Workshop in Nagano, and served as a lecturer at Musashino Art University and Tokyo Glass Art Research Institute. He was deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of glass artists and his influence continues to shape Japanese glass art today. This shell wine glass exemplifies Ito's ability to transform molten glass into poetic sculptural forms that blur the boundaries between functional vessels and fine art objects. The piece can serve as both an elegant drinking vessel and a captivating decorative object that brings natural beauty into any interior space. Tragically, Ito Kenji passed away in 2021 from an aortic dissection, leaving behind a profound legacy in the world of contemporary glass art. This piece represents the work of a master at the height of his creative powers. Size Height: 17.5 cm Width: 7.5 cm Depth: 7.5 cm Weight 393 g Condition Good vintage condition with minor signs of age-appropriate wear but no significant damage or defects. Artist Profile 伊藤賢治 Ito Kenji (1960-2021) was a distinguished Japanese blown glass artist born in Toyama Prefecture. He achieved international recognition beginning with his Grand Prix win at the 1990 Young Glass Art Exhibition, followed by numerous accolades including the International Glass Art Exhibition Grand Prize. Ito established multiple glass studios including Sai Glass Studio in Kawasaki, Karuizawa Glass Workshop, and Kawagoe Experience Workshop Aoi Tori. He served as a lecturer at Musashino Art University and Tokyo Glass Art Research Institute, and appeared as an instructor on NHK Educational Television's glass art programs. His works are permanently collected by the Spanish National Glass Museum and numerous other institutions. Ito was renowned for his exceptional technical mastery of blown glass and his ability to create organic, nature-inspired forms. He dedicated himself to educating future generations of glass artists and his influence continues to resonate throughout the Japanese glass art community. He passed away unexpectedly in 2021 at age 61. NOITICE : The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by Japan Post, DHL or FedEx depend on the situation. It takes about 3 weeks to receive normally. Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Sometimes Customes or delivery company in your country contact you for Customs clearance via phone or email. Please make sure that you could answer the phone. If you don't, the parcel will return to me and it cost more double shipping fee for reshipping. I appreciate your cooperation.