Rare Sake Cup by Living National Treasure Kosei Matsui – Nerikomi Sui-ji Technique

This is a rare Sui-ji Nerikomi sake cup (guinomi) by Kosei Matsui (1927–2003), a Living National Treasure of Japan, recognized for his mastery of the nerikomi ceramic technique. The piece bears the artist’s signature carved into the base.

Dimensions

Diameter: approx. 7.2 cm (2.83 in)

Height: approx. 4.6 cm (1.81 in)

About the Artist – Kosei Matsui (1927–2003)
Kosei Matsui was designated as a Living National Treasure of Japan in 1993 for his exceptional skill in the nerikomi technique. Born in Nagano Prefecture, he graduated from Meiji University’s Faculty of Literature and later became the head priest of Gessō-ji Temple in Kasama City, Ibaraki Prefecture. In 1960, he built a kiln within the temple grounds and began his pottery career, deeply researching ancient Chinese ceramic techniques.

Matsui specialized in nerikomi, a labor-intensive method where different colored clays are combined to form intricate patterns. This technique requires advanced knowledge and precision, as the different clay bodies often shrink at varying rates during drying and firing, leading to a high risk of cracking. Through years of research, Matsui developed ways to harmonize clay shrinkage and introduced new variations of nerikomi, significantly influencing the world of contemporary Japanese ceramics.

A highly collectible piece for any connoisseur of fine Japanese pottery or collectors of Living National Treasure works.

Condition