Bizen Tokkuri (Used)

This Bizen sake bottle is an earlier work by Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki, an artist who continues to lead the world of Bizen ware with unfailing creativity. While the included ceramic history document was issued after his certification as a Living National Treasure, the maker's mark suggests it was crafted during the period he was recognized as a Prefectural Intangible Cultural Property. It is a highly simple and basic piece, featuring a uniform brown surface accented by only a few scattered sesame glaze spots (tobigoma). The way the sesame glaze drapes over the shoulder like a scarf creates a pattern of fine, distinct grains reminiscent of the antique Bizen potato-shaped bottle cherished by Isezaki himself—a mysterious connection to the past. Its simplicity makes it versatile, and it has a comfortable weight in the hand, making it a very practical bottle for use. (There are two stone pops on the shoulder; please note that as this is an earlier work, some signs of age may be present, though there is no apparent dirt or staining.) Original signed box (shiho-san style)
Rim 3.6cm × Body Diameter 9.2cm × Body Diameter 9.2cm × Height 13.3cm Capacity: approx. 420cc Jun Isezaki was born the second son of Yozan Isezaki, a master known for his intricate ceramic crafts. He learned pottery from a young age and pursued it professionally after graduating from the Special Art Course at Okayama University in 1959. His work is broad in scope, ranging from traditional items such as vases, plates, and tea ceremony wares to sculptural objects and ceramic murals. He places great emphasis on both shaping and firing, utilizing the unique characteristics of his materials and various kilns (anagama, climbing, and electric kilns) to create a style imbued with a modern sensibility. He is also a leading figure in relief art, having presented numerous works in this field. 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 certified as holders of Okayama Prefecture Important Intangible Cultural Properties, and he served as the 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: Kinjo Toyo Award, Okayama Prefecture Cultural Encouragement Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, Excellence Award at the Chanoyu Modeling Exhibition, and many others / Served as a judge for the Prefectural Exhibition