Bizen Sake Cup

This is a brand new Bizen sake cup, freshly fired in the kiln by Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki, who continues to lead the world of Bizen ware with an inexhaustible creative power. This latest piece was fired in the Anagama kiln at Koyasan, which he restored alongside his father, Yozan, and his brother, Mitsuru. It is a rare example of Anagama firing where the 'hidasuki' (fire-cord) markings take center stage, achieved through a steaming technique. While Anagama firing typically subjects pieces to gusting flames that often produce a glossy finish, this work features a matte, exposed clay surface completely devoid of shine, allowing the user to enjoy the coarse texture of the soil. Only the flowing, draped hidasuki markings possess a viscous luster, creating a fascinating contrast with the non-reflective clay body. The 'goma' (ash glaze) looks as if gold dust has been sprayed onto the surface, making this piece a unique standout even among Master Jun's Anagama works, full of rare and captivating scenery. Signed wooden box (shiho-zan) included
Diameter 6.7cm x Diameter 6.4cm x Height 7.0cm Jun Isezaki was born the second son of Yozan Isezaki, a master known for his intricate ceramic figurines. He learned pottery from a young age and entered the craft full-time after graduating from the Okayama University Special Fine Arts Course in 1959. His body of work is wide-ranging, encompassing everything from traditional pieces like flower vases, plates, and tea ceremony wares to sculptural objects and ceramic murals. He places great emphasis on both the forming and firing processes, and his style is characterized by a modern sensibility that leverages the unique qualities of his materials and kilns (Anagama, Noborigama, and electric kilns). He is also recognized as a leading figure in relief art, having unveiled numerous works. He became a full member of the Japan Kōgei Association in 1966 and served as a special lecturer at Okayama University for nine years starting in 1978. In 1998, he and his brother, Mitsuru, were both designated as holders of Okayama Prefectural Important Intangible Cultural Properties; in the same year, he became the Secretary General of the Chugoku Branch of the Japan Kōgei Association. In July 2004, he was designated a holder of a Nationally Important Intangible Cultural Property.
Awards: Numerous honors including the Kaneshige Toyo Prize, Okayama Prefectural Cultural Encouragement Award, Sanyo Shimbun Prize, and Excellence Award at the Chanoyu Modeling Exhibition / Prefectural Exhibition Judge