Item Description： This is an exquisite Bizen ware jar with handles (Mimi-tsuki Tsubo) by the renowned contemporary ceramic artist Kakurezaki Ryuichi 隠崎隆一 (b. 1950, Nagasaki). Kakurezaki is celebrated as one of the leading figures in modern Bizen pottery, known for his avant-garde approach that seamlessly blends traditional techniques with contemporary design sensibilities. Born in Nagasaki in 1950, Kakurezaki initially pursued a career in graphic design after graduating from Osaka University of Arts in 1973. In 1977, he shifted his path to ceramics, first studying under Iwamoto Shuichi, then spending seven and a half years apprenticing with Isezaki Jun (Living National Treasure). In 1985, he established his own kiln in Osafune, Setouchi City, Okayama Prefecture, marking the beginning of his independent career. This jar exemplifies Kakurezaki's signature style—daring forms with tasteful surfaces that showcase the natural variations of Bizen clay. The piece features distinctive ear-shaped handles (mimi) on both sides, demonstrating the artist's skill in creating both functional and sculptural pottery. The unglazed surface displays the characteristic earthy tones of Bizen ware, created solely through the interaction of high-quality clay and fire during the extended firing process. Kakurezaki's work has been recognized internationally, with pieces held in prestigious collections including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Brooklyn Museum of Art, and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. In 1990, he became a full member of the Japan Craft Association, and in 2016 and 2019, he was designated as an Important Intangible Cultural Property holder by Setouchi City and Okayama Prefecture respectively. The piece comes with its original signed wooden box (tomobako), protective cloth (tomofu), and an informational leaflet (shiori), ensuring its authenticity and provenance. Size Height: 21 cm Width: 17 cm Depth: 13 cm Condition The jar is in excellent condition with no visible damage or significant wear. The piece shows the natural characteristics of Bizen ware firing, with authentic kiln effects that enhance its aesthetic appeal. Artist Profile Kakurezaki Ryuichi 隠崎隆一 (Kakurezaki Ryuichi, b. 1950) is one of Japan's most celebrated contemporary Bizen pottery artists. Born in Goto City, Nagasaki Prefecture, he initially worked as a graphic designer after graduating from Osaka University of Arts in 1973. His artistic journey took a decisive turn in 1977 when he began studying ceramics under Iwamoto Shuichi, followed by an intensive seven-and-a-half-year apprenticeship with Living National Treasure Isezaki Jun. In 1985, Kakurezaki established his independent studio with a climbing kiln (noborigama) in Osafune, Setouchi City, Okayama Prefecture. His unique background in graphic design profoundly influences his ceramic work, resulting in innovative forms that push the boundaries of traditional Bizen ware while maintaining deep respect for its historical techniques. Throughout his career, Kakurezaki has received numerous accolades, including the Issui-kai Prize (1986, 1990), the Tanabe Museum of Art Grand Prize (1988, 1992), the MOA Okada Mokichi Prize (1995), and the Japan Ceramic Society Prize (1996). He became a full member of the Japan Craft Association in 1990 and has participated in international exhibitions, including the 1997 Bizen Ware Paris Exhibition. In 2016, Kakurezaki was designated as an Important Intangible Cultural Property holder by Setouchi City, followed by the same designation from Okayama Prefecture in 2019. His works are held in major museum collections worldwide, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the Brooklyn Museum of Art, and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. Kakurezaki's pottery is characterized by bold, sculptural forms and surfaces that reveal the natural beauty of Bizen clay through carefully controlled firing techniques. His pieces embody a contemporary aesthetic while honoring the thousand-year tradition of Bizen pottery, one of Japan's Six Ancient Kilns. NOITICE: The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by Japan Post, DHL or FedEx depend on the situation. It takes about 3 weeks to receive normally. Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Sometimes Customes or delivery company in your country contact you for Customs clearance via phone or email. Please make sure that you could answer the phone. If you don't, the parcel will return to me and it cost more double shipping fee for reshipping. I appreciate your cooperation.