Bizen Beer

This is a brand new Bizen beer mug, just fresh from the kiln of Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki, who continues to lead the world of Bizen ware with an inexhaustible creative power. This piece features a well-balanced expression characteristic of an anagama kiln firing, showcasing the defining elements of Isezaki Bizen: goma (ash glazing), hidasuki (fire-cord markings), and a gradation of white clay and scarlet hues. Straw was wrapped diagonally around the piece, and the resulting hidasuki that encircles the mug is so captivating that one finds themselves losing track of time while tracing its path with their eyes. The interior also bears the distinct markings of an anagama kiln, with beautifully scorched golden goma descending straight into the bowl, forming golden grains as if snow were slowly accumulating; it is sure to make finishing a beer a truly delightful experience. While it is labeled as a beer mug on the box, it can, of course, also be used as a tea cup. Signed wooden box (shiho-san style)
Diameter 8.1cm x 7.8cm x Height 10.0cm Jun Isezaki was born as the second son of Yozan Isezaki, an expert in intricate ceramic crafts. He learned pottery from a young age and embarked on his career after graduating from the special fine arts course at Okayama University in 1959. His work covers a broad spectrum, ranging from traditional items like vases, plates, and tea ceremony ceramics to sculpted wall pieces and objects. In his creative process, he places great emphasis on both shaping and firing. He is known for a style overflowing with a contemporary sensibility that leverages the unique characteristics of his materials and kilns (anagama, climbing, and electric kilns). Furthermore, he is a leading figure in relief art and has unveiled numerous works in this field. He became a full member of the Japan Kōgei Association in 1966. From 1978, he served as a special lecturer in fine arts at Okayama University for nine years. In 1998, he and his brother, Mitsuru, were both designated as Holders of Okayama Prefecture Important Intangible Cultural Properties, and in the same year, he began serving as 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 awards including the Kaneshige Toyo Prize, Okayama Prefecture Cultural Encouragement Award, Sanyo Shimbun Prize, and Excellence Award at the Tea Ceremony Form Exhibition / Prefectural Exhibition Judge