23117 Kitaoji Rosanjin (Illustrated Shino Grass Pattern Sake Cup (Kuroda Touanshi))

Height 2.8cm Diameter 6.3cm

Praised as an artist who never made it big, he displayed his extraordinary talents not only in ceramics but also in seal carving, lacquerware, calligraphy and other fields. This work is by Kitaoji Rosanjin, a great master of all arts who left behind many masterpieces and legends. The warm and familiar vessel shape somehow exudes a sense of security and inclusiveness not found in the works of other ceramic artists. And the grass patterns, drawn with unrestrained brushstrokes, have the warmth and "artistic simplicity" that is unique to Rosanjin, making this a well-balanced masterpiece overall.