Bizen Beer Mug

This is a brand new Bizen beer mug, just fresh from the kiln of Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki, an artist who continues to lead the world of Bizen pottery with an inexhaustible creative spirit. This latest work was completed after nine days and nine nights of firing in the anagama kiln at Koya-san, which he restored alongside his father, Yozan, and his brother, Mitsuru. This piece features a well-balanced expression of the characteristics unique to anagama firing, showcasing the signature Isezaki Bizen finish with elements such as sesame glaze (goma), fire-cord markings (hidasuki), scorched sesame, and a beautiful gradation of white clay and scarlet. The straw was positioned diagonally across the mug, creating a landscape where the hidasuki encircles the piece; one can easily lose track of time simply following the flow of the scarlet markings with their eyes. The interior also displays the distinctive scenery of an anagama kiln, with crisp, beautiful yellow sesame glaze cascading directly into the foot, forming golden grains that look like falling snow—making the act of finishing a beer all the more enjoyable. While labeled as a beer mug on the box, it can also be used as a tea cup. Signed wooden box to follow (please allow some time for delivery)
Diameter 8.0cm x 8.0cm x Height 10.7cm Jun Isezaki was born the second son of Yozan Isezaki, an artist renowned for his craftsmanship. 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 broad spectrum, ranging from traditional vases, plates, and tea utensils to ceramic murals and sculptural objects. He places great emphasis on both the forming and firing processes. His style is characterized by a modern sensibility that leverages the unique qualities of his materials and various kilns (anagama, climbing kilns, and electric kilns). He is also recognized as a leading figure in relief art, having unveiled numerous works in that field. He became a regular member of the Japan Kōgei Association in 1966. From 1978, he served as a special art instructor at Okayama University for nine years. 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 Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property by the Japanese government.
Awards: 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 / Juror for the Prefectural Art Exhibition