Jyun Isezaki (1936–2026) was a leading contemporary Bizen-yaki potter, born in Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture. His father was the Bizen-yaki potter Yozan Isezaki. Together with his elder brother, Mitsuru Isezaki, he restored traditional anagama kilns and pursued the authentic earthy character and kiln-fired variations inherent to Bizen-yaki, whilst also actively engaging with contemporary forms such as angular vases, large platters and sculptural objects, thereby bridging tradition and innovation. In 2004, he was designated a Holder of the Important Intangible Cultural Property ‘Bizen-yaki’ (Living National Treasure), and in 2025 he was selected as a Person of Cultural Merit. He passed away on 11 July 2026 at the age of 90.

Jun Isezaki’s works combine the vigour born of the clay and flames unique to Bizen-yaki with a clear, sculptural beauty. In his angular vases in particular, the contrast between the sharply carved contours and the soft textures created by natural kiln changes is striking. The vermilion, sesame-coloured and charred marks that appear on the unglazed clay surface are the very traces of the flame; whilst appearing simple at first glance, they change their expression depending on the angle from which they are viewed. The great appeal of Jun Isezaki’s work lies in the fact that, whilst inheriting the spirit of ancient Bizen, he did not remain confined to past styles, but developed Bizen-yaki into a form of contemporary ceramics.