{"product_id":"p6294","title":"Bizen Sake Cup","description":"This is a new Bizen sake cup (guinomi) fresh 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 is his latest work, removed from the kiln in May 2021.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nFired for approximately 10 days in a semi-underground anagama kiln, the natural glaze that has heavily coated the back of the piece creates a landscape that appears to embrace the work.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nThe yellow sesame (goma) glaze that flowed down forms a band across the front, creating a kiln-transmutation effect reminiscent of an obsidian orb.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nAlthough the outer perimeter is almost entirely covered in sesame glaze, the side facing the front—which was positioned away from the direct flames during firing—retains its raw clay texture, showing a superb, melting milk-chocolate hue.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nDespite such an intense landscape, the interior (mikomi) remains largely untouched by the glaze, preserving a dry, matte clay surface that provides a sharp, characteristic contrast typical of anagama kiln firing.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nThe base features Isezaki's signature \"uchimon\" (beaten pattern) technique; the incised lines have been transformed into a gentle pentagonal shape, and the intense fire during the firing process has further warped the entire piece, giving it an even more dynamic and bold silhouette.\n\nSigned wooden box (shiho-zan)\u003cbr\u003e\nDiameter 7.1cm × 6.9cm × Height 7.1cm\n\nJun Isezaki was born as the second son of Yozan Isezaki, a master of ceramic craft. He learned pottery from a young age and pursued the path of ceramic art 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, plates, and tea utensils to sculptural objects and ceramic wall reliefs.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nIn his production, he places great importance on both shaping and firing, developing a style infused with modern sensibility that brings out the unique characteristics of his materials and various kilns (anagama, climbing kiln, and electric kiln).\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nHe is also widely recognized as a leading artist in ceramic reliefs, having exhibited numerous works.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nHe was recognized as a regular member of the Japan Kōgei Association in 1966 and served as a special art instructor 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. That 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: Kaneshige Toyo Award, Okayama Prefecture Cultural Encouragement Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, Excellence Award at the Tea Ceremony Modeling Exhibition, and many others \/ Served as a judge for the Prefectural Exhibition","brand":"伊勢崎 淳","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46618714996833,"sku":"6294","price":60000.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0654\/9916\/8865\/files\/6294.jpg?v=1790241022","url":"https:\/\/tourakuen.myshopify.com\/en\/products\/p6294","provider":"川口陶楽苑","version":"1.0","type":"link"}