Sakuma Totaro (1900-1976) Vintage mashiko pottery teacup #4970

- width: approx. 8cm (3 5⁄32in)

- height: approx. 8.5cm (3 11⁄32in)

- weight: 222g (w/ box 340g)

This teacup is covered in a bluish-gray glaze, within which the silhouette of a white leaf elegantly emerges. The leaf's shape is gentle, imparting the beauty of a fragment of nature into the teacup. Overall, the smooth texture and the visible flows of the glaze convey the warmth of handcrafting and the depth of craftsmanship.

Sakuma Totaro
1900-1976
male

mashiko potteryBorn in Mashiko. Completed his studies at Mashiko Training School and inherited the family business. In 1924, the potter Sakuma Totaro met Hamada Shoiji, who greatly influenced him. Inspired by Hamada’s innovative ceramic style, Totaro began experimenting with new forms that deviated from the traditional Mashiko ware. Initially, the local community was skeptical and critical of these changes, but Totaro persisted in incorporating Hamada’s techniques, eventually gaining acceptance. This encounter played a pivotal role in establishing Mashiko as a town celebrated for its folk crafts.Ogoto Tonichi Award. Tochigi Prefecture Cultural Achievement Award. Member of the Totokai and Kokugakai collectives. Served as a member of prefectural art festival committees.