Sake cup (guinomi) 2012

This is a sake cup, or "guinomi," created by Imaizumi Takeshi, a contemporary Japanese artist. The cup’s form and glaze speak to both tradition and innovation within the world of Japanese ceramics. Japan has a long and rich history of ceramic production, tied to social practices like tea ceremonies and sake consumption. Formal traditions of craftsmanship are often passed down through family lineages, but contemporary artists like Takeshi are pushing these boundaries through innovative forms. Here, the organic form and luminous glaze suggest a self-conscious awareness of both natural processes and the marketplace. The cup presents an interesting case study for understanding the complex interactions between art, culture, and commerce in the globalized world. To further explore the significance of this object, we might look into the history of ceramic production in Japan, the role of sake in Japanese society, and the contemporary art market.