Bizen Yunomi

This is a brand-new Bizen tea cup, freshly taken from the kiln by Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki, a master who continues to lead the world of Bizen ware with an inexhaustible creative spirit. This work was fired in the Koyasan climbing kiln (anagama) that he restored alongside his father, Yozan, and his brother, Mitsuru. It beautifully captures the characteristics of anagama firing, such as bright *hidaski* (fire-cord) markings and dynamic *goma* (sesame-like ash glaze) patterns. A straw cord has been wrapped around the cup diagonally, creating a *hidaski* pattern that encircles the piece; watching the flow of the fire-cord as it winds around is so mesmerizing that one easily loses track of time. The interior also showcases typical anagama scenery, with a crisp, beautiful yellow *goma* falling straight down into the bowl, forming golden grains that look as if snow is gradually piling up. With its varied *hidaski* gradations and golden *goma*, the scenery is so rich that you will find yourself eager to finish your drink just to see it again. While labeled as a tea cup, it is also perfect for use as a beer tumbler. Signed wooden box (shiho-san style)
Diameter 7.6cm x 7.4cm x Height 9.5cm Jun Isezaki was born as the second son of Yozan Isezaki, an expert in ceramic crafts. He began learning pottery at a young age and entered the craft formally after graduating from the Special Art Course at Okayama University in 1959. His body of work is vast, ranging from traditional vases, plates, and tea ceremony utensils to ceramic wall art and abstract objects. In his creative process, he places great emphasis on both shaping and firing. His style is characterized by a modern sensibility that maximizes the unique qualities of his materials and various kilns (anagama, climbing, and electric). He is also recognized as a leading relief artist, having unveiled numerous works. He became a regular member of the Japan Kōgei Association in 1966 and served as a special art lecturer at Okayama University for nine years starting in 1978. In 1998, he and his brother Mitsuru were both designated as Holders of Important Intangible Cultural Property of Okayama Prefecture, and in the same year, he became the Secretary-General of the Chugoku Branch of the Japan Kōgei Association. In July 2004, he was designated a Living National Treasure (Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property).
Awards: Recipient of numerous honors, including the Kaneshige Toyo Prize, the Okayama Prefecture Cultural Encouragement Award, the Sanyo Shimbun Award, and the Excellence Award at the Exhibition of Tea Ceremony Ceramics, among others / Prefectural Exhibition Juror