Bizenware Small Cup | So Isezaki

The durability, combined with its excellent breathability, makes Bizenware ideal for a variety of uses. Bizenware cups, unlike standard cups, retain heat for longer periods, keeping their contents warm. Additionally, the delicate pores within Bizenware trap air, enhancing the aroma of sake and coffee, such as espresso, and resulting in a smoother, more refined taste. Pairing this cup with a Bizenware vase / sake container will create a beautiful sake set!

Bizenware '備前焼' is a traditional Japanese pottery style originating from the Bizen region of Okayama Prefecture. It holds a prestigious status as one of Japan's oldest pottery techniques, with a rich history spanning over 1000 years. Recognised as a 'Japanese traditional craft' by the government and designated as part of Japan's heritage, it embodies the cultural essence of the nation. 

Each piece of Bizenware bears the imprint of its unique variables, ensuring that no two pieces are alike in colour or pattern. Its style eschews the use of glazes, instead relying on high-temperature firing techniques ranging from 1200 to 1300 degrees Celsius. The typical temperature for firing conventional ceramics in a kiln ranges from about 800 to 1200 degrees Celsius, indicating that Bizenware is fired at higher temperatures. The result is a unique and distinct pottery known for its earthy brown hues and rustic appearance.

Detail
Size: D 6.5cm x H 6cm
Weight: 110g
Microwave & Dishwasher NOT Safe

Artisan
So Isezaki '伊勢崎 創', his Bizenware pieces are crafted using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Each piece is meticulously handmade, showcasing the skill and artistry of the craftsmen at So Isezaki. The studio produces a wide range of Bizenware pottery, including tea bowls, vases, plates, and sake sets, each reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Bizenware and embodying the timeless beauty of Japanese ceramics. His father holds the title of Important Intangible Cultural Property holder in Okayama Prefecture, Japan, while his uncle is renowned as a Living National Treasure of Japan. So Isezaki plays a crucial role in preserving the history of Bizenware pottery for the modern era.