Bizen Tokkuri

This is a Bizen sake flask by Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki, an artist who has always led the world of Bizen ware with an inexhaustible creative power. Judging by the signature on the box and the style of the work, it was created before he was designated a Living National Treasure, during the period when he was recognized as a Prefectural Important Intangible Cultural Property. While it features the *anagama* (tunnel kiln) firing characteristic of *goma* (ash glaze) and *hidasuki* (fire-cord) patterns, this piece is particularly focused on the *hidasuki* technique, with vivid fire-cords running across a base of translucent white clay. It features the simple, rounded turnip shape that Isezaki-sensei favored, and its unpretentious form is truly a pleasure to behold. (There are no signs of use or dirt.) Original signed wooden box (with double-cross bracing)
Mouth 3.7cm x Body diameter 10.2cm x Body diameter 10.1cm x Height 12.3cm; Capacity: approx. 400cc Jun Isezaki was born as the second son of Yozan Isezaki, an artist who excelled in intricate ceramic crafts, and learned pottery from a young age before embarking on his career after graduating from the Special Art Course at Okayama University in 1959. His body of work is vast, ranging from traditional pieces like vases, plates, and tea utensils to sculptural works such as ceramic walls and objects. In his creative process, he emphasizes both forming and firing, utilizing the unique characteristics of his materials and kilns (anagama, climbing kilns, and electric kilns) to create a style imbued with a modern sensibility. He is also recognized as a leading relief artist, having presented numerous works in this medium. In 1966, he became a full member of the Japan Kōgei Association. Starting in 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 Okayama Prefecture Important Intangible Cultural Property holders, 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 as a holder of a Nationally Important Intangible Cultural Property.
Awards: Recipient of the Kaneshige Toyo Award, Okayama Prefecture Cultural Encouragement Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, Excellence Award at the Tea Ceremony Molding Exhibition, and many others / Served as a judge for the Prefectural Exhibition