Bizen ware 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 world of Bizen pottery through his exceptional sense of style and masterful sculptural ability. It is a masterpiece imbued with a message that only earth-based pottery can convey—a hallmark of Koichiro-sensei, who uses the texture of the clay to create a diverse range of expressions. Fired inside a larger piece, this work is characterized by its clean separation of red and white hues. The design below the waist is unconventional, featuring an interesting rounded bottom accented by a tiered ledge. The refined look of the white clay and the deep tones of the red *hidasuki* (fire cord) markings beautifully complement the unique design, resulting in a piece that perfectly embodies Koichiro-sensei’s style and fits seamlessly into contemporary spaces. Comes in a paulownia wood box, making it an excellent choice for a gift or commemorative item. Signed box (shiho-san)
Diameter 8.1cm x 8.1cm x Height 8.9cm Koichiro Isezaki was born the eldest son of Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki. The Isezaki family is a prestigious line in Bizen pottery; his grandfather was Intangible Cultural Property holder Yozan Isezaki, and his uncle was Intangible Cultural Property holder Mitsuru Isezaki. Koichiro aspired to be a potter from a young age. After graduating from the Tokyo University of Art and Design’s sculpture department in 1994, he studied abroad in the United States. He trained for two years under New York-based potter Jeff Shapiro, an experience that greatly broadened his perspective on art and ceramics. Since returning to Japan in 2000, he has worked hard to hone his craft 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, where his work was selected.