Isezaki Jun (伊勢崎淳), Japanese (1936–2026)

A Bizen Single-Flower Vase (備前一輪生)

Shōwa Era (1926–1989)

About the work

A quietly expressive Bizen flower vase by Isezaki Jun, with a rounded lower body rising through a sloping shoulder into a narrow neck and gently flaring mouth. Its restrained outline allows the naturally fired surface to take prominence.

The body displays warm reddish-brown clay alongside darker smoky passages and lighter grey areas. Small flecks and patches of ash enliven the surface, creating a varied finish without painted decoration. These effects follow the curves of the vessel rather than forming a fixed ornamental pattern.

The neck and lip show warmer reddish tones, while the body moves through ochre, brown and charcoal. Subtle surface irregularities and visible changes in texture give the piece a tactile quality. The contrast between the compact opening and swelling lower body provides a balanced silhouette.

The narrow mouth is suited to a restrained floral arrangement, allowing a single stem or small branch to complement the vessel’s form. Accompanied by its original wooden box and artist leaflet. The seller describes the piece as undamaged; the kiln effects are part of its visual character.

Dimensions

18.6cm(h) x 12.2cm(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.