Set of two premium, Bizen-yaki yunomi 湯のみ teacups by artist Bifu Kimura. The tall, cylindrical shape (tsutsu-gata) is ideal for everyday, informal tea drinking. The cups feature distinct goma patterning of a deep gray hue.
The making of...
During the firing, red pine ash whirls through the kiln and eventually settles and melts onto the pieces. The result is a natural, sienna-hued ash glaze resembling sprinkles of sesame seeds, or goma (胡麻). The point at which the ash melts (1200℃) is known as tama-dare (ball drop). Goma can be most often found on pieces placed near the fire mouth. It is possible now to artificially create goma patterns by adding pine ash prior to firing. There are other variations in color: yellow, brown, black, and blue-green.
About Bifu Kimura
Bifu Kimura is a 9th generation Bizen potter in Inbe, Japan. His work balances dynamic, clean shapes with the rough textures of the Bizen firing process. Today he leads Studio Kibido with his daughter Mizuho Kimura and her husband, Yosuke.
