Bizen ware teacup

This Bizen tea cup is by Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki, who continues to lead the world of Bizen pottery with an inexhaustible creative power. This latest work was completed after nine days and nights of firing in the Anagama kiln at Mt. Koya, which he restored alongside his father, Yozan, and his brother, Mitsuru. This piece exhibits a deep scarlet hue reminiscent of apple skin—a hallmark of Anagama kiln firing—with flames blooming brilliantly across the refreshing white clay. The clear scarlet surface is adorned with sesame-like ash glaze (goma) and straw impressions, creating a stunning, dynamic effect like scattered sparks. Master Isezaki often writes the phrase "The Radiance of Earth and Fire" on shikishi boards, and this piece is a true embodiment of those words, with the fire dancing vividly and freely across the clay. Signed wooden box (shiho-san) included
Diameter 7.6cm × Diameter 7.4cm × Height 10.2cm Jun Isezaki was born as the second son of Yozan Isezaki, a master of ceramic craft. He learned pottery from a young age and began his professional career after graduating from the Special Art Course at Okayama University in 1959. His work is wide-ranging, encompassing traditional pieces such as vases, plates, and tea ceremony utensils, as well as ceramic wall reliefs and sculptural objects. He places great emphasis on both forming and firing, characterized by a modern sensibility that leverages the unique properties of his materials and kilns (anagama, climbing, and electric). He is also a leading figure in relief art, with numerous works to his credit. He became a regular member of the Japan Kogeikai 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 designated as holders of Okayama Prefecture Important Intangible Cultural Properties, and he served as the Secretary-General of the Chugoku Branch of the Japan Kogeikai the same year. In July 2004, he was designated as a Living National Treasure (Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property).
Awards: Numerous awards including the Kaneshige Toyo Prize, Okayama Prefecture Cultural Encouragement Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, and Excellence Award at the Tea Ceremony Modeling Exhibition / Served as a judge for the Prefectural Art Exhibition.