Isezaki Jun (伊勢崎淳), Japanese, b. 1936

A Bizen Tokkuri (備前徳利) 

Showa Era (1926-1989), Heisei Era (1989-2019) or Reiwa Era (2019-present)

About the work

This Bizen ware tokkuri by Isezaki Jun exemplifies the quiet strength and refined restraint of contemporary Bizen ceramics. The vessel is formed with a compact, rounded body that rises gently toward a short neck and softly flared mouth, creating a harmonious and functional form suited for serving sake. The proportions are carefully balanced, giving the piece both stability and an understated elegance.

The surface displays the natural firing effects characteristic of Bizen ware. Rich reddish-brown clay is accented by darker areas and subtle ash deposits produced during prolonged wood firing. Fine speckling and slight variations in tone reveal the interaction between clay, flame, and ash within the kiln. The unglazed surface retains a tactile quality, allowing the natural character of the clay and firing process to remain visible.

The tokkuri is accompanied by its original signed wooden storage box (tomobako), confirming authenticity and careful preservation.

Dimensions

12.8cm(h) x 7.8cm(w)

Footnote

Isezaki Jun (b. 1936) is the second son of Isezaki Yozan, a master craftsman of fine Bizen work. Trained from childhood alongside his brother Mitsuru, Jun began exhibiting in the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition in 1961 and became a full member of the Japan Kogei Association in 1966. After establishing his own kiln in 1967, he expanded his artistic range to include large-scale ceramic reliefs for public spaces such as the Prime Minister’s residence and Kurashiki Notre Dame Memorial Hall. Renowned for his mastery of kiln variation (yohen) and fire-mark techniques, he later developed new sculptural approaches combining traditional Bizen with black glazes. In 2004, he was designated a Living National Treasure, only the fifth Bizen potter to receive this honor.