GYOUZAN 1St Gen (Nakano Yukizyou) "爪描き" - 常滑– 31.6cm Rectangular NOT FOR SALE

GYOUZAN 1st Gen (中野行山, Nakano Yukizyou) 常滑– 31.6cm Rectangular 

Product Details: NOT FOR SALE at the moment, checking my trees!

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)

This medium-sized, unglazed rectangular bonsai pot by 1st Generation Gyouzan (中野行山) showcases the quiet strength and precision associated with early Tokoname work. The pot’s form features slightly tapered walls, gently widening from base to rim, creating a subtle visual lift while retaining a formal, grounded presence. The square-edged corners are crisply defined, and a traditional internal planting rim (内縁) supports precise soil and root placement.
Rather than the typical warm red hue found in some Tokoname clay, this pot is crafted from a muted, earthy brown clay, likely high-fired, giving it a durable, stone-like appearance. Over time, it has developed a natural surface patina, enhancing its tsuchi-aji (土味) or “clay flavor,” with a quiet, mature beauty in line with the Japanese aesthetic of shibui (渋い).
Foot Construction:
The stepped corner feet are a subtle highlight of this piece. Each foot is composed of two clearly defined horizontal layers, forming a crisp stepped profile. These are visually enhanced by a third horizontal element — the basal band — which wraps around the lower edge of the pot's body. This gives the illusion of a three-tiered foot, though the band itself is structurally part of the pot’s base, not the foot.
This design creates a harmonious visual flow from the body to the feet, enhancing both stability and elegance.
Natural surface patina consistent with age and use has developed.

The piece is nail-signed (爪描き, tsume-gaki) by the artist, a mark of authenticity and adherence to traditional technique.

External Dimensions (外寸): 31.6 × 27.5 × 11.5 cm

 Condition (状態): Very good condition with minor age-related wear. No chips, cracks, or repairs.

Signature: Nail-signed (爪描き, tsume-gaki) by 1st Gen Gyouzan

Free shipping with this pot!

Ideal for formal bonsai display or serious collection

About the Artist (作家紹介):

Nakano Yukizyou (中野行山, b.1940), founder of the Gyouzan kiln, is regarded as one of the most respected living bonsai potters of Japan. Known in Japan as “Nakano Arukisan” (中野アルキ三, “Nakano Row Three”), his works are celebrated for their balance, precision, and enduring beauty. He is especially admired for his unglazed creations, which reveal the natural strength of Tokoname clay.

Unique to his work, drainage holes are often playful in shape and arranged in thoughtful patterns, while the undersides show meticulous attention to detail. Each pot reflects his mastery of both functional artistry and refined form, making Gyouzan a cornerstone name in Japanese bonsai ceramics.