Black Guinomi

Born as the eldest son of Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki, Koichiro Isezaki brings a fresh spirit to the world of Bizen ware through his exceptional sense of design and remarkable skill in forming clay. This is a newly fired Kuro-Guinomi by the artist.

Fresh from the kiln in July 2026, it is one of his latest works.

While making full use of the distinctive qualities of Bizen clay, Isezaki skillfully incorporates elements drawn from wood carving, one of the roots of his artistic practice, creating a unique work that is immediately recognizable as his own.

This firing took place in the height of summer, and the humidity brought by prolonged rainfall affected the conditions inside the Anagama kiln. As a result, exceptionally intense Kase-Goma accompanied by blue kiln effects developed across the surface, appearing almost as though it had adhered directly to the clay.

Approximately one third of the exterior is also covered with Koge-Goma created by powerful flames. The ash has melted thoroughly into an exceptionally smooth surface, adding not only visual interest but also a more pleasant sensation against the lips.

While the exterior is dominated by Kase-Goma and Koge-Goma produced by the intense firing and humid kiln conditions, the interior presents an entirely different expression. Here, golden Kigoma resembling scattered grains of gold appears alongside the matte black surface characteristic of Koichiro Isezaki’s work.

The basic form itself was built entirely by hand without the use of a potter’s wheel. Every detail has been carefully considered, giving this small Guinomi a remarkably concentrated presence, almost reminiscent of a Chawan.