GYOUZAN 1st Gen (中野行山, Nakano Yukizyou) – 常滑 28.2cm Rectangular
Product Details:
Region (産地): Tokoname 常滑市
Kiln (窯元): GYOUZAN (行山)
作家 (Artist): 中野行山 – 1st Gen Nakano Yukizyou (初代 行山)
This medium-sized, unglazed, rectangular bonsai pot exemplifies the artistry of Gyouzan. Hand-crafted with precision, it features a soft mokkō (木瓜) influenced form with slightly flared walls and a distinctive raised lip (縁, fuchi). The lip is echoed by a refined raised border that flows seamlessly into recessed, stepped feet (段足, dan-ashi), lending both structure and vertical rhythm to the design.
A lower band encircles the body, harmonising with the lip to enhance the pot’s balance and symmetry. The overall effect is one of quiet strength, embodying the essence of shibui (渋い) — understated elegance that reveals depth over time. With continued use, the warm clay (土味, tsuchi-aji) will develop a rich patina, deepening its character.
Signature: Nail-hand-signed (爪描き, tsume-gaki) by the great Gyouzan of Tokoname
External Dimensions: 28.2 x 25.1 x 10.3 cm
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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.
