Bizen Hidasuki Sake Cup

This is an earlier work of Bizen sake cup by Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki, who continues to lead the world of Bizen pottery with an inexhaustible creative spirit. This piece dates back to the very beginning of Master Isezaki’s career, crafted shortly after he built his kiln at his current location. Created when he was around 30 years old, the mellow character achieved by the climbing kiln used at that time offers a different charm compared to the *hidasuki* (fire-cord) patterns of the anagama kilns he primarily uses today; it might be interesting to compare it side-by-side with his latest anagama work. Its gentle style is easy to handle and feels pleasant against the lips. It comes with a new box, making it perfect as a gift or a collector's item. (Please note that although this is an earlier work, it is unused.) Signed wooden box (shiho-san style)
Diameter 6.8cm × Diameter 6.8cm × Height 5.9cm Master Jun Isezaki was born as the second son of Master Yozan Isezaki, who excelled in intricate ceramic crafts. He learned pottery from a young age and embarked on a career in ceramics after graduating from the Special Art Course at Okayama University in 1959. His body of work is vast, ranging from traditional items such as flower vases, plates, and tea ceremony wares to sculptural pieces like ceramic walls and objects. In his creative process, he places great emphasis on both forming and firing. His style is characterized by a modern sensibility that leverages the unique features of his materials and various kilns (anagama, climbing, and electric kilns). Additionally, he is widely recognized as a leading relief artist and has presented numerous works. He became a full member of the Japan Kōgei Association in 1966. From 1978, he served as a special lecturer in art at Okayama University for nine years. In 1998, he and his elder brother, Mitsuru, were both designated as Holders of Important Intangible Cultural Property of Okayama Prefecture, and in the same year, he became the Secretary-General of the Chugoku Branch of the Japan Kōgei Association. In July 2004, he was designated as a Living National Treasure (Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property).
Awards: Numerous, including the Kaneshige Toyo Award, the Okayama Prefectural Cultural Incentive Award, the Sanyo Shimbun Award, and the Excellence Award at the Chanoyu Modeling Exhibition / Served as a judge for prefectural exhibitions.