Yasuhide Uchida (1893–1997) is revered as a "solitary legend" in the history of Showa-era ceramics. After receiving international acclaim at the 1970 Osaka Expo and refining his craft at the prestigious Manufacture nationale de Sèvres in France, he reached a unique aesthetic realm where Japanese and French sensibilities converged. This exquisite shot glass is a masterpiece from his mature later years. It is crafted using his signature technique, "Hyorikantsuunishikineriage" (Through-and-Through Brocade Neriage), a legendary method that has effectively been lost to time.
At first glance, the intricate geometric patterns may appear to be delicate brushwork, but they contain no pigments or painted designs whatsoever. This technique involves coloring raw clay with various metal oxides and assembling them like a complex 3D puzzle based on precise calculations, making the pattern itself the very structure of the vessel. Because different colored clays have varying shrinkage rates during firing, the risk of cracking at the joints is extremely high, and no glaze is used to hide imperfections. The vivid, unclouded colors and durable finish are the results of Uchida's mastery of color science at Sèvres and his absolute obsession with controlling every grain of clay.
True to its name, "Hyorikantsuu" (Front-to-Back Penetration), the intricate exterior patterns pass through to the interior and base with absolute precision, creating a structure that is literally the same inside and out. This serves as undeniable proof of the perfect layering of the clay. For Uchida, a native of Hiroshima, this "through-and-through" beauty was a sublime physical manifestation of his prayer for a world of "peace without front or back" (transparency and harmony). The base is engraved with the character "Tai" (Yasu), his authentic signature, and one can feel the distinct, woven layers of clay—a hallmark of his work—with their fingertips.
We present this historically significant masterpiece as the ultimate shot glass for savoring the finest whiskies or spirits. Measuring 4.2 cm in height and 4.9 cm in diameter, its delicate size fits perfectly in the hand, ideal for appreciating the layered aromas of fine liquor in small sips. The moment amber liquid is poured, the kaleidoscopic patterns shimmering through to the interior create an ever-changing landscape at the bottom of the glass. While this item does not include accessories, the overwhelming presence of the work and the passion that remains undimmed after nearly fifty years offer the profound joy of ownership, transforming an evening drink into a transcendent cultural ritual.
- Artist: Yasuhide Uchida (1893–1997)
- Notable Achievements: Studied color and porcelain techniques at the Manufacture nationale de Sèvres in the 1960s. Exhibited at the 1970 Osaka Expo (EXPO'70). Designated a Holder of the Hiroshima Prefecture Important Intangible Cultural Property for "Nishikineriage" in 1973.
- Public Collections: Treasured by craft collectors worldwide as a "legendary artist," with works held in major collections across Hiroshima and beyond.
- Production Period: Late mature period (Late 1970s to 1980s)
- Condition: Excellent (no chips or cracks, signed "泰")
- Accessories: None (Item only)
- Material: Nishikineriage (Ceramic, through-and-through inlay technique)
- Dimensions: Height approx. 4.2 cm, diameter approx. 4.9 cm
- Please note: Although these items are in unused condition, they are vintage archival pieces and are listed as second-hand. Please understand that items may show characteristics of aging, and we encourage you to review all details before purchase.
