Item Description: This is an exquisite sake cup (guinomi) by 伊豆蔵芳子 Izukura Yoshiko, a talented ceramic artist specializing in Kutani ware. The piece showcases delicate polychrome overglaze enamel painting depicting two birds among blooming flowers and graceful foliage. The interior features a pure white porcelain surface that provides an elegant canvas for the vibrant hand-painted decoration, while the exterior is adorned with a beautiful turquoise glaze complemented by intricate wave patterns carved into the rim. Izukura demonstrates exceptional skill in the traditional Kutani technique of overglaze enamel painting, with careful attention to detail in rendering the birds' feathers and the delicate flower petals. The two birds are painted in rich blues and earth tones, creating a naturalistic representation that brings life and movement to the small vessel. The red flowers with their turquoise leaves add a pop of color that enhances the overall composition, while the yellow ground beneath suggests earth or sand, completing the natural scene. The contrast between the refined white interior and the jewel-toned exterior exemplifies the sophisticated aesthetic sensibility of Kutani ceramics, known for its vibrant color palette and intricate painting. The turquoise exterior glaze with its carved wave pattern demonstrates the technical mastery required in Kutani ware production, where multiple firings are necessary to achieve the layered decoration. The iron-brown rim adds a finishing touch that frames the piece beautifully. This sake cup comes with its original wooden box (tomobako) inscribed "Taishoku-e Hisui-zu Sakazuki" (Polychrome Bird and Flowers Design Sake Cup) and includes a biographical document detailing the artist's background and training under master craftsman Kitayama Unpei, a Nihon Dento Kogei (Japan Traditional Crafts) holder. Such pieces represent the refined craftsmanship and artistic tradition of Kutani ware, where each work is created with meticulous attention to detail and aesthetic harmony. A charming example of contemporary Kutani ceramic art that brings both beauty and functionality to the sake-drinking ritual, perfect for collectors of fine Japanese ceramics or for those who appreciate the art of sake culture. Size Height: 3 cm Width: 6.5 cm Depth: 6.5 cm Weight: 29 g Condition Excellent condition with no visible damage or wear. Artist Profile 伊豆蔵芳子 Izukura Yoshiko was born and raised in the birthplace of Kutani ware in Ishikawa Prefecture. From her youth, she had a passion for painting and studied the fundamentals of Japanese painting and drawing. She apprenticed under Kitayama Unpei, a distinguished Nihon Dento Kogei (Japan Traditional Crafts) holder and Nitten (Japan Fine Arts Exhibition) artist, where she mastered design, overglaze decoration, and glaze techniques. After establishing her own kiln, Izukura dedicated herself to researching and perfecting her craft, with particular focus on the development and refinement of colored enamel glazes characteristic of Kutani ware. Her works have been selected for prestigious exhibitions including the Issui-kai exhibition and traditional craft exhibitions in Ishikawa Prefecture. She has also been invited to exhibit at the Hokuriku Women Artists Exhibition, demonstrating her recognition within the ceramic art community. Izukura's artistic practice represents the continuation of Kutani ware's rich tradition of vibrant polychrome decoration while bringing her own refined sensibility to this historic ceramic style. 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.