{"title":"Kenji Takenaka (竹中健次)","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"jp84-kenji-takenaka","title":"Kenji Takenaka (竹中健次), Japanese (b. 1957)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA Bizen Iron-Glazed Guinomi (備前鉄絵ぐい呑)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeisei Era (1989-2019) or Reiwa Era (2019-present)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAbout the work\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA finely crafted guinomi (sake cup) by Kenji Takenaka, a distinguished Bizen ceramic\u003cbr\u003eartist celebrated for his mastery of traditional techniques. This sake cup exemplifies\u003cbr\u003ethe tetsue (iron-glaze) method, with expressive brushwork adorning the rustic Bizen\u003cbr\u003eclay surface. The natural ash glaze, achieved through wood-firing, imparts depth and\u003cbr\u003echaracter, showcasing the organic interplay of textures and hues unique to Bizen\u003cbr\u003eware.\u003cbr\u003eIncluded with the guinomi is a tomobako (signed wooden storage box), tomonuno\u003cbr\u003e(protective cloth), and shiori (informational leaflet), ensuring authenticity and offering\u003cbr\u003einsight into the artist\u0026amp;#39;s craftsmanship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDimensions\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e5.8cm(h) x 6.3cm(w)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFootnote\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKenji Takenaka, born in Okayama City in 1957, is a celebrated Bizen\u003cbr\u003eceramic artist. After graduating from the Okayama Prefectural Industrial Research\u003cbr\u003eInstitute’s Bizen Ceramic Center in 1986, he apprenticed under Living National\u003cbr\u003eTreasure Jun Isezaki. Takenaka built his anagama kiln in 1993, marking the start of\u003cbr\u003ehis independent journey. His works have been exhibited internationally, including in\u003cbr\u003eParis, he has received honors at the Tanabe Museum and the Japan Traditional\u003cbr\u003eCrafts Exhibition.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kenji Takenaka","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54935873782146,"sku":"JP84","price":120.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0549\/3830\/4706\/files\/JP84-3.jpg?v=1738033482"},{"product_id":"jp341-kenji-takenaka","title":"Kenji Takenaka (竹中健次), Japanese (b. 1957)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA Bizen Oribe Guinomi\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeisei Era (1989-2019) or Reiwa Era (2019-present)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAbout the work\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis expressive guinomi is the work of Bizen-yaki artist Kenji Takenaka, showcasing his distinctive fusion of robust Bizen clay with vivid Oribe glaze. The cup’s handbuilt form emphasizes irregular planes and natural contours, allowing rivulets of deep green glaze to flow over the warm reddish clay beneath. The contrast between glossy Oribe and the earthy, textured body gives the piece a striking presence, balancing spontaneity with disciplined craftsmanship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe tokkuri is accompanied by its original signed wooden box, cloth, and documentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDimensions\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5.7cm(h) x 6cm(w) x 5.7cm(d)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFootnote\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKenji Takenaka, born in Okayama City in 1957, is a celebrated Bizen ceramic artist. After graduating from the Okayama Prefectural Industrial Research Institute’s Bizen Ceramic Center in 1986, he apprenticed under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki. Takenaka built his anagama kiln in 1993, marking the start of his independent journey. His works have been exhibited internationally, including in Paris, he has received honors at the Tanabe Museum and the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kenji Takenaka","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56194552627586,"sku":"JP341","price":190.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0549\/3830\/4706\/files\/Kenji_Takenaka_JP341-2.jpg?v=1768819814"},{"product_id":"jp340-kenji-takenaka","title":"Kenji Takenaka (竹中健次), Japanese (b. 1957)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA Bizen Ware Tokkuri \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeisei Era (1989-2019) or Reiwa Era (2019-present)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAbout the work\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis Bizen tokkuri displays the understated refinement characteristic of Kenji Takenaka, a contemporary Bizen potter known for his disciplined firing control and sensitivity to clay expression. The vessel rises in a soft, rounded silhouette that tapers into a narrow, elegant mouth. Natural kiln effects animate the surface: warm reddish hidasuki markings flow vertically across the body, contrasted against the matte gray stoneware ground. Subtle textural variations created by wood firing contribute to the quiet depth and presence of the piece. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe tokkuri is accompanied by its original signed wooden box, cloth, and documentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDimensions\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e13.2cm(h) x 9.6cm(w)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFootnote\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKenji Takenaka, born in Okayama City in 1957, is a celebrated Bizen ceramic artist. After graduating from the Okayama Prefectural Industrial Research Institute’s Bizen Ceramic Center in 1986, he apprenticed under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki. Takenaka built his anagama kiln in 1993, marking the start of his independent journey. His works have been exhibited internationally, including in Paris, he has received honors at the Tanabe Museum and the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kenji Takenaka","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56209808064898,"sku":"JP340","price":280.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0549\/3830\/4706\/files\/Kenji_Takenaka.jpg?v=1768448263"},{"product_id":"jp349-kenji-takenaka","title":"Kenji Takenaka (竹中健次), Japanese (b. 1957)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA Bizen Tokkuri \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeisei Era (1989-2019) \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAbout the work\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis sculptural Bizen tokkuri by Kenji Takenaka presents the quiet strength and rustic refinement characteristic of high-quality Bizen ware. The vessel’s square, faceted body reveals deliberate cuts and softened edges, creating a dynamic interplay of planes that catch light and shadow. Natural kiln effects, including warm reddish flashing and subtle ash deposits, animate the surface and underscore the individuality of the firing. The broad shoulder and tapering neck contribute to a commanding yet understated silhouette, making the piece suitable both for practical use and contemplative display.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe tokkuri is accompanied by its original signed wooden box, cloth, and documentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDimensions\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e11.3cm(h) x7.5cm(w) x 7.8cm(d)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFootnote\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKenji Takenaka, born in Okayama City in 1957, is a celebrated Bizen ceramic artist. After graduating from the Okayama Prefectural Industrial Research Institute’s Bizen Ceramic Center in 1986, he apprenticed under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki. Takenaka built his anagama kiln in 1993, marking the start of his independent journey. His works have been exhibited internationally, including in Paris, he has received honors at the Tanabe Museum and the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kenji Takenaka","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56247884743042,"sku":"JP349","price":250.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0549\/3830\/4706\/files\/Kenji_Takenaka_JP349-2.jpg?v=1768987684"},{"product_id":"jp356-kenji-takenaka","title":"Kenji Takenaka (竹中健次), Japanese (b. 1957)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA Ceramic Sculpture – Lingering Snow (残雪)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeisei Era (1989-2019) \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAbout the work\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKenji Takenaka’s work titled残雪, meaning lingering snow, is a sculptural tea-ceremony piece that evokes the weathered vertical strata of stone partially veiled by melting winter snow. The form rises as a tall, segmented column set upon a rugged base, its textured surfaces accentuated by a cool, granular glaze reminiscent of frost. Rough-hewn ridges and recessed layers create a strong interplay of light and shadow, while subtle tonal shifts suggest the natural erosion of rock. The underside bears the artist’s incised signature. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by an original signed wooden box, cloth and printed insert.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDimensions\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e19.5cm(h) x 8.8cm(w) x 5.4cm(d)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFootnote\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKenji Takenaka, born in Okayama City in 1957, is a celebrated Bizen ceramic artist. After graduating from the Okayama Prefectural Industrial Research Institute’s Bizen Ceramic Center in 1986, he apprenticed under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki. Takenaka built his anagama kiln in 1993, marking the start of his independent journey. His works have been exhibited internationally, including in Paris, he has received honors at the Tanabe Museum and the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kenji Takenaka","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56258467103106,"sku":"JP356","price":250.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0549\/3830\/4706\/files\/Kenji_Takenaka_JP356-1.jpg?v=1769143284"},{"product_id":"jp516-kenji-takenaka","title":"Kenji Takenaka (竹中健次), Japanese (b. 1957)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA Black Bizen Guinomi (黒備前 ぐい呑)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeisei Era (1989-2019) or Reiwa Era (2019-present)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAbout the work\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis Black Bizen guinomi by Kenji Takenaka is a compact yet powerfully expressive example of contemporary Bizen ware rooted firmly in tradition. The cup is hand-formed with a subtly flared profile, rising from a rounded base to a softly irregular rim. Its surface bears the quiet tension characteristic of Bizen: unglazed, tactile, and shaped as much by flame and ash as by the potter’s hand. The deep charcoal to iron-black tones, with faint variations and scorched highlights, result from reduction firing and natural kiln effects, lending the vessel a subdued but commanding presence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite its sculptural appearance, the guinomi is carefully balanced for use. The lip is gently thinned for a comfortable mouthfeel, and the body sits naturally in the hand, revealing the artist’s sensitivity to function alongside form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe piece is accompanied by its original wooden tomobako, bearing the artist’s inscription and seal, confirming authenticity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDimensions\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e6.8cm(h) x 6.5cm(w) x 6cm(d)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFootnote\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKenji Takenaka, born in Okayama City in 1957, is a celebrated Bizen ceramic artist. After graduating from the Okayama Prefectural Industrial Research Institute’s Bizen Ceramic Center in 1986, he apprenticed under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki. Takenaka built his anagama kiln in 1993, marking the start of his independent journey. His works have been exhibited internationally, including in Paris, he has received honors at the Tanabe Museum and the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kenji Takenaka","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56537260884354,"sku":"JP516","price":280.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0549\/3830\/4706\/files\/Kenji_Takenaka_JP516-6.jpg?v=1775644277"},{"product_id":"jp519-kenji-takenaka","title":"Kenji Takenaka (竹中健次), Japanese (b. 1957)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA Black Bizen Tokkuri (黒備前 角徳利)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeisei Era (1989-2019) or Reiwa Era (2019-present)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAbout the work\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis angular sake flask by Takenaka Kenji presents a striking interpretation of contemporary Bizen ware grounded in classical technique. Formed with a squared, architectural body and a crisply articulated neck, the vessel emphasizes tension between mass and precision. The geometry lends the tokkuri a sculptural presence, while its proportions remain carefully calculated for practical use, ensuring a smooth pour and comfortable handling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFired in the kuro-Bizen tradition, the surface displays deep iron-rich blacks interspersed with subtle ash deposits and kiln effects that emerge through prolonged wood firing. Horizontal tool marks along the body accentuate the form and introduce a rhythmic texture, while natural variations in tone reveal the dynamic interaction between clay, flame, and ash. The result is a surface that feels both austere and alive, embodying the quiet strength characteristic of high-level Bizen ware.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe piece is accompanied by its original tomobako (signed wooden storage box), confirming authenticity and provenance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDimensions\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e12.5cm(h) x 6.2cm(w) x 6cm(d)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFootnote\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKenji Takenaka, born in Okayama City in 1957, is a celebrated Bizen ceramic artist. After graduating from the Okayama Prefectural Industrial Research Institute’s Bizen Ceramic Center in 1986, he apprenticed under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki. Takenaka built his anagama kiln in 1993, marking the start of his independent journey. His works have been exhibited internationally, including in Paris, he has received honors at the Tanabe Museum and the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kenji Takenaka","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56544586891650,"sku":"JP519","price":380.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0549\/3830\/4706\/files\/Kenji_Takenaka_JP519-3.jpg?v=1775818092"},{"product_id":"jp525-kenji-takenaka","title":"Kenji Takenaka (竹中健次), Japanese (b. 1957)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA Red-Glazed Black Bizen Yunomi (紅釉黒備前湯呑)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeisei Era (1989-2019) or Reiwa Era (2019-present)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAbout the work\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA powerful and expressive yunomi by Kenji Takenaka, combining the rugged character of Bizen ware with a striking application of vivid red glaze. The faceted form is solid and tactile, with subtly angled planes that enhance the vessel’s sculptural presence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe surface is dominated by a deep, charcoal-black Bizen clay body, richly textured with natural firing marks. Across the upper portion, a bold red glaze flows organically over the rim and down the sides, creating dramatic contrast and a sense of movement. The interplay between the raw, unglazed clay and the molten red glaze exemplifies the dynamic tension central to contemporary Bizen-inspired works.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe base bears the artist’s impressed mark, and the piece is accompanied by its original signed wooden box (tomobako), affirming authenticity.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDimensions\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e10.3cm(h) x 6.5cm(w) x 7cm(d)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFootnote\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKenji Takenaka, born in Okayama City in 1957, is a celebrated Bizen ceramic artist. After graduating from the Okayama Prefectural Industrial Research Institute’s Bizen Ceramic Center in 1986, he apprenticed under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki. Takenaka built his anagama kiln in 1993, marking the start of his independent journey. His works have been exhibited internationally, including in Paris, he has received honors at the Tanabe Museum and the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kenji Takenaka","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56588195365250,"sku":"JP525","price":380.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0549\/3830\/4706\/files\/JP525-1.jpg?v=1777023672"}],"url":"https:\/\/orientalteabox.com\/zh\/collections\/kenji-takenaka.oembed","provider":"OrientalTeaBox","version":"1.0","type":"link"}