Bizen Water jar (Mimitsuki Mizusashi)

This is a Bizen mizusashi (fresh water jar) by Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki, an artist who has consistently led the Bizen ware world with an inexhaustible creative power. This piece dates from the artist's early to mid-career, crafted before he was designated as a Holder of Okayama Prefecture Important Intangible Cultural Property. While Jun Isezaki is often associated with vibrant, reddish works fired in an anagama kiln and sculptural, avant-garde pieces, in this work, he demonstrates the techniques of authentic tea ceramics, showcasing the austere, refined kiln transformations typical of Bizen, much like his brother Mitsuru. Taking advantage of the mid-sized format of a mizusashi, the piece features a rich variety of scenic effects that change subtly from section to section, despite an overall subdued firing tone. The sesame glaze (goma), which is slightly matte with hints of green, is scorched black in some areas, and when combined with the ash-covered (haikaburi) kiln effects on the back, it brings out the charm of the clay without overwhelming the delicate gradients. The base features a vivid splash of scarlet—a hidden detail that can only be enjoyed by the owner after use—much like a delightful epilogue that appears after the credits of a film. Signed wooden box (shiho-zan) with lid Diameter 21.5cm (including lugs) × Diameter 19.1cm × Height 20.5cm Jun Isezaki was born the second son of Yozan Isezaki, an artist known for his skill in intricate clay work. He learned pottery from a young age and pursued the path of a ceramic artist after graduating from the Special Art Course at Okayama University in 1959. His body of work is vast, ranging from traditional pieces like flower vases, plates, and tea ceramics to sculptural works such as ceramic walls and objets d'art. In his creative process, he places great emphasis on both forming and firing. His style is characterized by a modern sensibility that leverages the unique qualities of his materials and kilns (anagama, climbing kilns, and electric kilns). He is also recognized as a leading figure in relief art, having presented numerous works in this medium. He became a regular member of the Japan Kōgei Association in 1966. From 1978, he served as a special art instructor at Okayama University for nine years. In 1998, he and his brother Mitsuru were both designated as Holders of Okayama Prefecture Important Intangible Cultural Property, and that 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 national government.
Awards: Numerous honors including the Kaneshige Toyo Award, Okayama Prefectural Cultural Encouragement Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, and Excellence Award at the Tea Ceremony Form Exhibition; Juror for prefectural exhibitions