Sazameku Cascade Tall Guinomi Sake Cup
This hand-shaped guinomi sake cup extends the sculptural language of the Sazameku series through a taller, more vertical silhouette. Rooted in traditional Kutani glazing techniques, Yamaura Saori carries forward the dynamic cascade expression while altering the visual proportion of the sake cup.
Deep green and white layers descend with greater length across the body, emphasizing the vertical movement of the glaze. During firing, the material gathers and stretches downward in bold yudare, creating elongated traces that heighten the sense of suspended motion. The cascade feels more continuous, more drawn out.
The base is finished in a subdued, smoke-toned silver. Its coarse, metallic texture grounds the piece, while the extended flow above introduces a subtle tension between stability and descent. The contrast becomes more pronounced in this taller form.
As with all works by Yamaura, the glaze halts just before fully enveloping the foot—a fleeting moment where intention meets chance. In this version, that pause feels heightened. Each firing produces nuanced variations, ensuring the individuality of every piece.
When filled, the interior deepens and darkens with sake. In the hand, the slightly taller profile shifts the balance subtly upward, offering a different tactile experience. While retaining the presence of a sculptural object, this sake cup is equally suited for contemplation or for moments of quiet hospitality.
DETAILS
| Quantity | 1 |
| Size |
D 7 cm (2.8 in) x H 6 cm (2.4 in) [Wooden box] L 10 cm (3.9 in) x W 10 cm (3.9 in) x H 9 cm (3.5 in) |
| Weight | 120 g (4.2 oz) |
| Material | Stoneware |
| Package Type | Wooden box |
| Microwave | No |
| Dishwasher | No |
Maker / Brand
Among today’s Kutani ware artists, Yamaura Saori brings a distinctive presence. Working from her home studio, she lets her hands guide her through subtle curves, gentle distortions, and soft transitions. Her pieces are not bound by convention, yet they are unmistakably rooted in craft. At once fluid and precise, intuitive and technical, her ceramics speak of a moment captured in time.
Crafts
Kutani ware is a pottery produced in the Kaga region of Ishikawa Prefecture, with a history spanning over 350 years. It is characterized by the heavy brilliance of the five colors of navy blue, red, purple, green, and yellow that are applied to the bold and daring lines. Its long history has evolved through the tireless efforts and enthusiasm of people who have sought innovation while maintaining tradition.
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About Artist
Musubi Gallery
Since its inception, MUSUBI KILN has strived to introduce the world to the finest traditional crafts from masters all around Japan.
Here, in the Gallery, we seek to showcase the highest echelon of traditional techniques passed down through generations. You can discover works from masters who have not only perfected those methods, but added their imagination to innovate the craft even further.
Some of these masters have even been named Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Heritage, a title bestowed upon them by the Japanese government to formally recognize their contribution to crafts and culture—thereby cementing their legacy and making them an important part of art history.
Each piece is meticulously handcrafted over many months to create a timeless treasure that's unlike any other. And when it's in your home, you, too, will become part of that history.
Welcome to the Gallery. Please, peruse at your leisure.
