Bizen Tokkuri (used)

This is a somewhat earlier Bizen sake bottle by Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki, an artist who continues to lead the Bizen ware world with an inexhaustible creative spirit. It includes a career history document dated up to 2006, shortly after he was designated a Living National Treasure, suggesting it was crafted around that time. The piece features the brilliant, vibrant firing characteristic of his anagama kiln, which is instantly recognizable as his work. The clay body displays a gradient from scarlet to amber, accented by vivid *hidasuki* (fire-cord) markings and clean, white *nuke* (uncovered areas). As a triangular bottle, each of the three sides offers a different aesthetic: one side showcases beautiful *hidasuki*, another reveals yellow *goma* (ash glaze) accompanied by scorched *goma*, and the final side features white *kase-goma* alongside further *goma* and amber-toned clay. Its solid, stable form is also highly appealing, making this a piece packed with the charm of Jun Isezaki's work. (Although it is an earlier work, it shows no stains or signs of use and is in almost brand-new condition.) Signed wooden box (shiho-san style)
Rim 3.8cm × Body 9.1cm × Body 8.9cm × Height 13.0cm; Capacity approx. 360cc Jun Isezaki was born the second son of Yozan Isezaki, a master of delicate ceramic craftsmanship. He learned pottery from a young age and entered the professional path after graduating from the Special Art Course at Okayama University in 1959. His body of work is vast, ranging from traditional items like flower vases, plates, and tea ceremony ware to abstract ceramic walls and objets d'art. In his creative process, he places great importance on both shaping and firing. He is known for a style overflowing with contemporary sensibility, making full use of the unique characteristics of his materials and kilns (anagama, climbing, and electric kilns). He is also recognized as a leading artist in the field of relief sculpture, with numerous works to his name. He became a full member of the Japan Kōgei Association 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 Holders of Important Intangible Cultural Property of Okayama Prefecture, and he served as Secretary General of the Chugoku Branch of the Japan Kōgei Association that same year. In July 2004, he was designated a Living National Treasure (Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property).
Awards: Numerous, including the Kaneshige Toyo Prize, the Okayama Prefecture Cultural Encouragement Award, the Sanyo Shimbun Award, and the Excellence Award at the Tea Ceremony Form Exhibition; also serves as a judge for prefectural exhibitions.