Bizen-yaki teacup

This Bizen-yaki teacup is the work of Koichiro Isezaki, who was born as the eldest son of Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki and has brought a breath of fresh air to the Bizen pottery world through his exceptional sense of style and skillful molding techniques. It is a masterpiece imbued with the unique message that only earthenware can convey, reflecting Koichiro-sensei's signature style of utilizing the texture of the clay to create a diverse range of expressions. The vibrant firing of the anagama (climbing kiln) is instantly recognizable as his work; the combination of bright scarlet tones, clean white clay, and dynamic "goma" (ash glaze) is always a joy to behold. The design from the waist down is quite unique, featuring a step that leads to an intriguing rounded base. The clean, crisp finish of the anagama firing and the distinctive design match perfectly, resulting in a piece characteristic of Koichiro-sensei that suits even modern living spaces. It comes in a paulownia box, making it an ideal choice for gifts or commemorative items. Signed wooden box (Shiho-san)
Diameter 8.1cm × 7.9cm × Height 9.2cm Koichiro Isezaki-sensei was born as the eldest son of Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki. The Isezaki family is a prestigious name in Bizen-yaki, with his grandfather being the Intangible Cultural Property holder Yozan Isezaki and his uncle being the Intangible Cultural Property holder Mitsuru Isezaki; Koichiro himself aspired to pottery from an early age. After graduating from the Department of Sculpture at Tokyo Zokei University in 1994, he studied abroad in the United States. He studied pottery for approximately two years under New York-based ceramic artist Jeff Shapiro, which greatly broadened his perspective on art and ceramics. After returning to Japan in 2000, he continued his training under the guidance of his father and his father's disciples. In 2002, he exhibited for the first time at the Tanabe Museum of Art's "Tea Ceremony Exhibition" and was selected for the prize.