DESCRIPTION :
Full of character and life this sake cup or 'guinomi' is the work of the famous literati artist Tomioka Tessai (1837-1924). He has both hand potted and inscribed the cup. The inscription reads ''Ancient bright mirror'', which is based on a line from a drinking poem by Meng Jiao (Moko, 751-814). The line translates as 'Wine is an ancient bright mirror', meaning that wine makes you open your heart and forget you worldly cares; the wonders of life are appreciated just as they are, clear and bright as if reflected from a spotless mirror. On the box is written ''Hand made by Tomioka Tessai: One Yokan-yaki sake cup''. Yokan-yaki was from a kiln associated with Atsuta Shrine in Nagoya that originally produced ceremonial pottery for the shrine. Translations and commentary provided by John Stevens, Professor and Director, Zen Art Society. |
