Bizen Sake Cup

This is a freshly fired *Bizen* sake cup 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* (climbing kiln) at Koya-san, which he reconstructed alongside his father, Yozan, and his brother, Mitsuru. It perfectly captures the distinctive characteristics of anagama firing. It is an exceptionally large piece featuring energetic and fluid wheel-thrown lines; combined with the design of the constricted body, it almost looks as if two standard-sized sake cups have been stacked on top of each other. Its dynamic size, approaching that of a small tea cup, is perfectly complemented by the lively and varied scenery created by the anagama firing. The entire piece displays a deep color and luster reminiscent of ripe apple skin, beautifully accented by the amber sheen of iron deposits typical of anagama firing, as well as *hidasuki* (fire-cord) straw markings that trail *goma* (ash glaze) like a fuse. Looking into the interior, the strongly defined wheel marks and the vivid gradation of the clay itself, combined with the vertically elongated form of the cup, create a stunning vista that pulls the viewer deep into its depths. Signed wooden box (shiho-san)
Diameter 6.9cm x Diameter 6.9cm x Height 7.6cm Jun Isezaki was born the second son of Yozan Isezaki, a master of ceramic ornamentation. He learned pottery from a young age and embarked on his career after graduating from the Special Art Course at Okayama University in 1959. His work covers a wide range, from traditional items such as vases, plates, and tea ceremony wares to sculptural objects and ceramic wall reliefs. In his creative process, he places great importance on both shaping and firing. He is known for a contemporary style that maximizes the unique characteristics of his materials and kilns (anagama, climbing kiln, and electric kiln). He is also recognized as a leading relief artist and has presented numerous works. He became a full member of the Japan Kōgei Association in 1966 and served as a special lecturer in art at Okayama University for nine years starting in 1978. In 1998, he and his brother Mitsuru were both certified 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 a Living National Treasure (Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property).
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 Tea Ceremony Arts Exhibition, among others / Prefectural Exhibition Juror