Kurinuki Yunomi Cup by Kaneta Masanao #29

This Kurinuki yunomi is a handcrafted Hagi ware tea cup by Kaneta Masanao, a ceramic artist known for his powerful hand-carved forms. Rather than shaping the clay on a potter’s wheel, he works directly with the clay body to create pieces with a strong, sculptural presence.

Following in his father’s footsteps, Kaneta Masanao began his career producing pieces on a potter’s wheel. Over time, however, he began to feel the constraints of wheel-thrown forms and turned to the Kurinuki method, carving each piece by hand in order to reveal the unique character and spirit of the clay.

He starts by repeatedly throwing a lump of clay onto a wooden board, then uses a wooden modeling tool to form the piece. Ridges, hollows and irregular surfaces are intentionally left, giving the yunomi its dramatic shape and tactile quality. The interior is then carved out to the required thickness, and the exterior is coated with glaze.

Kaneta Masanao combines Hagi ware tradition with his own highly original approach. His work is highly regarded by ceramic specialists and pottery collectors for its individuality, strength and deep connection to Hagi clay.