{"product_id":"p6248","title":"Bizen Yohen Sake Cup","description":"This is a brand-new Bizen *yohen* (kiln-transmuted) *guinomi* (sake cup) just removed from the kiln by Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki, an artist who continues to lead the world of Bizen ware with an inexhaustible creative power.\u003cbr\u003e\nThis latest work was fired in May 2021.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nAmong Jun Isezaki's works, his *anagama* (tunnel kiln) *yohen* pieces are particularly rare, and this particular item features exceptional firing that stands out even among them; it is stunningly beautiful, with the distinct characteristics of an *anagama* kiln set amidst a heavy ash glaze that rivals that of a *noborigama* (climbing kiln).\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nThe back features a rugged, intense ash deposit, but unlike those from a *noborigama*, it retains a clear yellow *goma* (sesame-seed glaze) within the deep, dark ash layers.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nThe *nuke* (uncovered, fire-kissed area) on the front face displays colors characteristic of *anagama* transmutation, with the red-bean-colored clay body transitioning into a vibrant scarlet, creating an exquisite charm that makes one want to use and \"nurture\" the piece over time.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nThe vividness of the *kumadori* (the boundary lines between the *yohen* and *nuke* areas) is also a defining feature, showcasing a distinct, melting reddish-purple clay tone with hints of gold.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nThe design is simple, eschewing decorations such as impressed patterns to highlight the natural kiln transmutation.\u003cbr\u003e\n\nSigned wooden box (*tomobako* with four-way interlocking frame)\u003cbr\u003e\nDimensions: Diameter 6.7cm x 6.5cm, Height 6.9cm\u003cbr\u003e\n\nJun Isezaki was born as the second son of Yozan Isezaki, a master of ceramic handicrafts. He learned pottery from a young age and began his professional career after graduating from the Special Art Course at Okayama University in 1959.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nHis works range widely from traditional pieces such as vases, dishes, and tea ceramics to sculptural objects and ceramic murals.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nIn his creative process, he places great importance on forming and firing, developing a signature style that feels distinctly modern by maximizing the unique characteristics of his materials and kilns (including *anagama*, climbing, and electric kilns).\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nHe is also a leading figure in relief art, having presented numerous works in this field.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nHe became a full member of the Japan Kōgei Association in 1966, and served as a special lecturer in fine arts at Okayama University for nine years starting in 1978.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nIn 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.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nIn July 2004, he was designated as a Living National Treasure (Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property).\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nAwards include: The Kaneshige Toyo Award, the Okayama Prefectural Cultural Incentive Award, the Sanyo Shimbun Award, and the Excellence Award at the Chanoyu Modeling Exhibition, among many others \/ Prefectural Exhibition Judge","brand":"伊勢崎 淳","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46618712211553,"sku":"6248","price":120000.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0654\/9916\/8865\/files\/6248.jpg?v=1790240990","url":"https:\/\/tourakuen.myshopify.com\/en\/products\/p6248","provider":"川口陶楽苑","version":"1.0","type":"link"}