GYOUZAN, Tokoname. 39.6cm drum taiko-gata (太鼓型) unglazed.
Product Details: On hold at the moment, I might use this pot on one of my pines. If you are interested, ping me!
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 honor traditional design motifs, commonly used in masculine bonsai displays (男前盆栽).
External Dimensions: 39.6 x 8.8 cm
About the Artist:
Yukizyou Nakano (中野行山) — born in 1940 — is considered one of the most respected living bonsai potters in Japan, especially known for his unglazed works. Referred to in Japan as “Nakano Arukisan” or “Nakano Row 3,” he is a master of form, balance, and functional artistry.
Alongside his son-in-law Yuuji Nakano, they continue the Gyouzan tradition, producing both unglazed and high-quality glazed pieces. His pots are distinguished by:
• Precise, elegant forms
• Exceptional surface finishing
• Carefully designed drainage patterns
• Unique signatures and attention to detail on the base
