Artwork Overview

Kaneta Masanao's white Hagi kurinuki high-footed cup brings together broad carved planes, an undulating rim and a substantial, irregular foot. Soft white glaze flows across the body, while coffee-brown lines trace its ridges. Reddish clay emerges at the base, grounding the pale upper form. The changing contours give the cup a sculptural presence that unfolds as it is turned.

Artist Context

In this work, Kaneta's kurinuki approach is expressed through the relationship between the hollowed interior and the carved exterior. Broad planes meet recessed passages and pronounced edges, making the shaping of the clay central to the cup's character. The elevated foot continues this sculptural language beneath the body, becoming an integral part of the composition.

Artistic Interpretation

The white glaze evokes lingering snow, with coffee-brown ridges suggesting earth revealed by a mountain thaw. Pale surfaces alternate with darker contours, allowing a landscape to emerge through the material itself. Openings beneath the foot introduce shadow and quiet intervals. This balance of solid form, open space and exposed earth recalls the contemplative character of a Japanese dry garden.

Curator's Selection

Selected for the particularly compelling balance of carving, glaze and elevated stance. The softness of the white surface meets the firmness of the cut planes, while brown contours articulate the structure without overwhelming it. The substantial foot anchors the composition, yet its openings introduce lightness. These relationships give the work a sense of quiet strength and make it a distinctive selection within ETHOSALIS.

Collector Perspective

The work rewards viewing from several directions. As it turns, broad white surfaces give way to narrow brown ridges, recessed passages and exposed clay. Gentle side light reveals these transitions and the changing shadows beneath the foot. In a quiet setting, attention can move between the overall silhouette and the intimate details of the glaze, rim and maker's mark.