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Koyama Isso I (1907-1984) was one of the best saikumono (sculptural) Bizen potters of his generation. Having studied under the legendary Isezaki Yozan (father of Living National Treasure Isezaki Jun), Mimura Tokei, and highly touted sculptor Numada Kazumasa, Koyama was a Bizen craftsman in every sense of the word, and only became an independent "artist" in 1965 by building his own kiln (he was already 58). He sincerely devoted his life to being a saikumono craftsman, and his talent puts him in a line of potters such as Yozan, Nishimura Shunko, the young Kaneshige Toyo, and Suzuki Ousai. Dharma was originally an ancient sage in Hindu mythology worshiped as a god within some castes. The word also referred to the teachings of Buddha. When Hindu and Buddhist influences made its way to the Japanese archipelago, "dharma" was "japan-ized" into "daruma," or anthropomorphically turning into the character captured in this Bizen daruma made by the first Koyama Isso (he is succeeded by his son Koyama Isso II). Simply, it is rare that one will find a Bizen daruma of this size (approx. 34cm tall) that is made with such high craftsmanship. It is full of life and character, and the true focal point of this piece is the Daruma's face -what joy! It looks very similar to the paintings of Daruma by master Edo painter Hakuin. In this saikumono, Daruma glances to his right, and his eyes follow -many similar figures have the characters look blankly straight out. The body, with its chest and fat tummy, and esp. the robe/garment Daruma wears, is evidence of great skill in carving such a piece, which takes much time and effort to complete. It is difficult to find a Bizen Daruma of similar stature, and is a testament to Isso's love for saikumono. This piece is 34cm tall, 21cm wide, 16cm long, comes with a signed box and is in near-perfect condition, with the feet having been restored.
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