GYOUZAN, Tokoname. 39.6cm drum taiko-gata (太鼓型) unglazed.
Product Details: On Hold!
Region: Tokoname 常滑市
Kiln: GYOUZAN
作家 (Artist): 中野行山 – 1st Gen Nakano Yukizyou Gyouzan
An expertly handcrafted taiko-gata (太鼓型) bonsai pot by 1st Generation Nakano Yukizyou (中野行山) of the renowned Gyouzan Kiln (行山窯) in Tokoname (常滑市)—Japan’s historic pottery region.
This unglazed, drum-style pot exemplifies strength, balance, and tradition. It features a hikidashi-gata (引き出し型) low-profile form, sitting on subtly recessed round feet that maintain the clean drum silhouette. A rhythmic band of kawara-buchi (瓦縁)-style rivets encircles the body, reminiscent of the decorative tacks on a taiko drum (和太鼓). These raised kuchi-gawa (口縁) studs add dynamic texture and honour traditional design motifs, commonly used in masculine bonsai displays (男前盆栽).
Condition: There is a chip on one of the legs, which has been professionally repaired in Japan, hence the price reduction.
External Dimensions: 39.6 x 8.8 cm
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.
