Koji Ishii (1946–1996) was a pioneer who infused Western glass crafts with a uniquely Japanese sensibility and a traditional Japanese aesthetic. Even after his passing in 1996, he continues to receive enthusiastic praise from collectors around the world. This work, a Hand-blown Glass Gold-decorated Sake Cup, embodies the refined aesthetics of Ishii's prime from the late 1980s to the mid-1990s, making it truly worthy of being called a masterpiece for the table.
The greatest appeal of Ishii's work lies in the tranquil and elegant texture of the frosted finish, evocative of the harsh winters of northern Japan. The lavish gold decoration that adorns the matte glass surface is more than just a superficial ornament; by contrasting it with the frosted texture, it exudes a profound brilliance that changes its expression depending on the angle of the light. Of particular note is the Musubi (knot) motif around the midsection. In Japanese culture, knots are considered sacred symbols that connect people and hearts. Expressing this in glass, which begins to harden the instant it is removed from the heat, requires extremely advanced craftsmanship. The way the glass curves, like unwavering brushstrokes, embrace the gold work is a true embodiment of Ishii's pursuit of the Japanese aesthetic.
Furthermore, the structure of a stemmed sake cup like this one is among the most difficult shapes to create in the field of glass art. During the hand-blown molding process, the thin stem is subjected to extreme thermal stress, often leading to breakage or distortion during the cooling stage. Completing such a piece requires extraordinary concentration and skilled technique. Ishii's signature engraved on the bottom is proof that it is an authentic work that has overcome this rigorous process and passed strict inspection. This sake cup, which has been carefully preserved along with its original box, goes beyond its function as a simple drinking vessel, conveying the passion and creative intensity that Koji Ishii poured into his glass every time it rests in the owner's hand.
Produced by: Ishii Glass Studio Co., Ltd.
Artist: Koji Ishii
Notable Activities: [1979] Work exhibited at Japan New Face II and purchased by Her Imperial Highness Princess Chichibu; [1985] Designed the silhouette bottle for Sanwa Shurui's Iichiko and won a special prize at the Japan Package Design Competition; [1985] Won a special prize at the Seibu Crafts Grand Prize Exhibition; [1994] Held the solo exhibition Symphony of Light and Wind: GLASS Koji Ishii at the Narukawa Museum of Art in Hakone.
Major Collections: The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo; Aomori Museum of Art; Chiba Prefectural Museum of Art; Toyama Glass Art Museum; Hida Takayama Museum of Art; Narukawa Art Museum (Hakone-Lake Ashi).
Production Era: Late 1980s to mid-1990s (estimated)
Condition: Very good (no chips or cracks)
Accessories: Original box and informational brochure included Material: Hand-blown glass
Please note: Even if the products we offer are brand new and unused, they are vintage items from an older production era and are listed as second-hand. Items may show signs of age-related wear. Please review the details carefully before purchasing.
