GYOUZAN 1st Gen (Nakano Yukizyou) "爪描き" – Tokoname – 28.5cm Oval Bag-Shaped Pot
Region (産地): Tokoname, Aichi Prefecture (常滑市)
Kiln (窯元): GYOUZAN (行山)
Potter (作家): Nakano Yukizyou – 1st Generation (初代 中野行山)
Size: 28.5 x 24.0 x 8.3 cm
Shape: Oval "Bag-shaped" (楕円袋形鉢 – daen fukuro-gata bachi)
Product Details:
A beautifully proportioned, vintage bag-shaped oval bonsai pot (袋形楕円鉢 – fukuro-gata daen-bachi) by the renowned Tokoname master GYOUZAN 初代 (Nakano Yukizyou / 中野行山). This pot is signed with the characteristic 爪描き (Tsumegaki) or "claw-drawn" mark — a hand-carved signature unique to the early works of Gyouzan 1st Gen.
The form is full-bodied and soft, expanding outward with a gentle curve that evokes the traditional fukuro-gata (bag-shape) style — offering both visual weight and natural softness. The well-defined double lip (縁 – fuchi) adds structure and elegance, while the body swells and tapers smoothly toward the base. The pot is supported by four perfectly recessed cut feet (隠し足 – kakushi ashi) that provide subtle lift and excellent stability.
Made from unglazed red-brown groggy Tokoname clay (無釉赤茶の荒土), this piece has a rich, earthy texture. The clay’s surface has started to develop a natural patina (景色 – keshiki) — a sign of age and quality. Ideal for semi-cascade (半懸崖), informal upright (模様木), or elegant literati-style (文人木) trees.
External Dimensions:28.5 cm x 24.0 cm x 8.3 cm
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Condition: Excellent! 無傷で素晴らしい状態です。
No chips, cracks, or structural flaws. An outstanding piece for use or display.
About the Artist (作家紹介):
Nakano Yukizyou (中野行山, b.1940) is the founder of the Gyouzan kiln (行山窯) and one of Tokoname’s most respected living bonsai potters. Known as “Nakano Arukisan (中野アルキ三)”, his work is celebrated for its balance, functionality, and elegant simplicity.
His pots are especially prized in unglazed finishes, where the character of Tokoname clay shines through. The playful drainage hole arrangements, careful foot shaping, and signature 爪描き markings reflect his deep respect for both utility and beauty in bonsai culture.
