Bizen Yohen Sake Bottle

This is a freshly fired Bizen *yohen* (kiln-transmutation) sake bottle by Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki, an artist who continues to lead the world of Bizen ware with an inexhaustible creative power. This latest piece was fired in the *anagama* (tunnel kiln) at Koya-san, which he reconstructed together with his father, Yozan, and his brother, Mitsuru. It features a rare *haikaburi yohen* (ash-covered kiln-transmutation) effect, even for an *anagama* firing. The aesthetic differs from the *yohen* of a *noborigama* (climbing kiln); the scarlet hues have clear, beautiful demarcations, and the rich *goma* (sesame ash) glazing is deeper in tone than that typically produced in a climbing kiln. From the waist down to the base, a black-silver ash coating subtly reflects the light, evoking the ferocity of the *anagama* flames. The form is characteristic of Isezaki—orthodox and devoid of artifice—allowing one to straightforwardly enjoy the rich scenery of the piece. Signed wooden box to follow (please allow some time for shipping).
Rim 3.5cm × Body diameter 9.2cm × Body diameter 9.2cm × Height 13.3cm; Capacity approx. 400cc Jun Isezaki was born the second son of Yozan Isezaki, an artist renowned for his intricate craftsmanship. He learned pottery from a young age and entered the field professionally after graduating from the Special Art Course at Okayama University in 1959. His body of work is wide-ranging, encompassing traditional pieces such as vases, plates, and tea ceremony wares, as well as ceramic wall art and sculptural objects. In his practice, he places great emphasis on both shaping and firing. His style, overflowing with a modern sensibility, leverages the unique characteristics of his materials and various kilns (anagama, noborigama, and electric kilns). He has also released numerous works as a preeminent creator of ceramic reliefs. He became a full member of the Japan Kōgei Association in 1966. From 1978, he served as a special lecturer in fine arts at Okayama University for nine years. In 1998, he and his 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 Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property by the national government.
Awards: Recipient of numerous honors, including the Kaneshige Toyo Award, the Okayama Prefecture Cultural Encouragement Award, the Sanyo Shimbun Award, and the Excellence Award at the Exhibition of Tea Ceremony Ceramics, among others; served as a judge for the Prefectural Art Exhibition.