ISHIDA Kazuya Black Rahō Spiral Cup (B)

Description

Building on his classical Rahō (螺法) spiral forms, Ishida Kazuya has developed this deep black cup — a contemporary reinterpretation of traditional Bizen ceramics.

The cup is deliberately smoked with charcoal in a wood-fired kiln, resulting in a matte, almost velvety surface. A subtle whitish sheen appears in places over the black, adding depth and a quiet sense of vitality. The spiral form remains perceptible throughout — reduced, yet distinctly present.

Capacity approx. 250 ml.

ISHIDA KAZUYA

Spirals and Waves: A Portrait of Nature in the Bizen Style

Ishida Kazuya comes from a family of potters in Bizen. Bizen is one of Japan’s most important ceramic regions and is renowned for its unglazed, high-fired pottery.

For four years, Ishida Kazuya studied under Isezaki Jun, Bizen’s current Living National Treasure. His experience in the United Kingdom, where he worked with slip and slipware techniques, has also had a strong influence on his work. Ishida Kazuya developed a distinctive interpretation of the Bizen style, which he calls Rahō (螺法). The name is derived from spiral-shaped shells.

Indeed, his creations are deeply inspired by nature. Ishida-san is fascinated by the dynamic forms and movements found in ancient rocks and spiralling seashells, and he seeks to capture these patterns in his work. Firing in a traditional noborigama or anagama kiln adds further layers of complexity to each piece through the effects of flame and the natural deposition of wood ash.