GYOUZAN 1st Gen (Nakano Yukizyou 中野行山) “鋲文” – 常滑 – 38.0cm Drum-shape (taiko-gata 太鼓型 )
Product Details: On Hold!
Region: Tokoname 常滑市
Kiln: Gyouzan Kiln 行山窯
Potter: 1st Generation Gyouzan (Nakano Yukizyou 中野行山)
An exceptional taiko-gata (太鼓型, drum-form) bonsai pot meticulously handcrafted by the 1st Generation Gyouzan (中野行山) of the distinguished Gyouzan Kiln (行山窯) in Tokoname (常滑市).
This unglazed (無釉) masterpiece demonstrates the robust yet refined aesthetic typical of early Gyouzan works. The pot’s body is adorned with a precise and rhythmic arrangement of raised rivet-like beads (鋲文 byōmon), symbolizing both protection and strength, echoing the fittings of a taiko drum (和太鼓).
The form is hikidashi-gata (引き出し型) with a well-balanced low profile, resting on neatly recessed straight feet (直足 choku-ashi), maintaining its harmonious circular flow. The natural Tokoname clay (常滑土 tokoname-tsuchi) presents a warm, earthen hue with subtle metallic undertones—emphasizing craftsmanship and material purity.
Such designs were favoured for masculine bonsai compositions (男前盆栽 otokomae bonsai), where form, texture, and restraint merge to convey quiet strength.
External Dimensions: 38.0 x 37.5 × 9.6 cm
Internal Dimensions: 33.9 x 33.2 x 8.2
Condition: Excellent (非常に良好)
Collector’s Note: / コレクターズノート
Early works by Gyouzan (暁山) have become increasingly scarce on the market, particularly examples that combine strong form, clean execution, and a rich sense of 土味 (tsuchi-aji) such as this piece. The harmonious balance of proportion, the carefully executed feet (爪描き脚), and the use of classic Tokoname clay exemplify the refined craftsmanship characteristic of first-generation Gyouzan works.
Pieces from this early period are especially valued for their understated elegance (控えめな美) and structural confidence, qualities that have become hallmarks of Nakano Yukizyou’s legacy. This pot embodies the timeless functionality and quiet sophistication that continue to make early Gyouzan ceramics highly sought after by serious collectors and bonsai practitioners worldwide.
