This stunning tea caddy by Yamamoto Izuru (b. 1944) is a fine example of Bizen ware, embodying a quiet elegance with its rounded form and natural ash glazing. The surface features a rich and dynamic landscape of flowing yellow ash glaze, referred to as goma (sesame), cascading over earthy red and dark brown tones beneath. This "sesame seed" effect is a hallmark of skillful kiln placement and careful control of the firing atmosphere.

The piece reflects Izuru’s refined aesthetic and technical mastery, rooted in the traditions passed down from his father, Yamamoto Toshu, a renowned master of tea caddies. Simple yet powerful, it captures the spirit of Bizen ware through its natural textures and subtle color transitions, making it a work of both tradition and individual expression.

Size
Diameter 8.1cm
Height 8.6cm

Unused
Comes with two wooden boxes and two Shifuku bags.

Yamamoto Izuru, born in 1944 in Okayama Prefecture, is a prominent Bizen pottery artist known for seamlessly blending traditional techniques with innovative sculptural methods. He graduated from Musashino Art University with a major in sculpture and furthered his studies at the Ecole Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris under Professor Louise Legg.

Returning to Japan in 1965, Izuru continued his artistic journey under the guidance of his father, Living National Treasure Toshu Yamamoto. In 1975, he established his own kiln in Inbe, achieving recognition with awards such as the Sanyo Newspaper Prize and the Chairman’s Prize at various exhibitions.

A regular member of the Japan Kogei Association, Izuru is celebrated for his expertise in Bizen marbled ware, influenced by both his family legacy and modern sculptural principles. He introduced innovative techniques like 'Shuu sai' and 'Tatakikomi,' and developed the 'Tsumiage' method after discovering unique clay in Bourgogne, France.

Through his inventive spirit, Yamamoto Izuru has revitalized Bizen pottery, merging tradition with contemporary artistic expression.