Vintage item, never used. This sake cup, or Ōhai (大盃), is a fine example of Kiyomizu-yaki (清水焼), one of Kyoto’s most celebrated ceramic traditions. Created by the artisan Heian Shōhō (平安祥峯), the piece embodies the refined aesthetics and craftsmanship for which Kyō-yaki ware is renowned.
The cup is made from high-quality clay, with the foot left unglazed to reveal its natural reddish-brown tone. The surface is covered in a lustrous glaze that features a delicate crackle pattern, known as kannyū, which adds depth and character to the piece. Around the body, hand-painted motifs of red and gold flowers intertwined with green leaves flow gracefully, evoking the seasonal beauty often celebrated in Japanese art. The brushwork is confident yet subtle, creating a balance between vivid color and refined restraint.
Accompanying the cup is its original tomobako (signed wooden box), inscribed with calligraphy that identifies the work and bears the artist’s signature, Heian Shōhō saku (平安祥峯造, “Made by Heian Shōhō”), along with his seal. Inside the box is a printed note describing the heritage of Kiyomizu-yaki, which traces its origins to Kyoto and has been passed down for over a thousand years. The text highlights how the beauty and natural grace of this ceramic tradition continue to enchant those who encounter it.
