This expertly crafted Tokoname-yaki kyusu (teapot) is thrown from Tokoname kokudei (黒泥) clay, which has the same properties as the iconic red shudei (朱泥) but is fired in reduction producing a deep black. The body is decorated with a detailed pine bark textured that contrasts with the smooth spout and handle. Made using a small wheel, this texturing technique is called matsugawa (松皮 - pine bark) in Japanese. The rim of the kyusu is also decorated using the shudashi (朱出し) style, in which a thin layer of the blackened clay is scraped off, revealing the brilliant vermillion of the shudei clay underneath.

The teapot's built-in ceramic sasame filter is perfect for naturally straining tea, with a wide shape for faster pouring and less clogging.

Made by Tatsuo Umehara (梅原タツオ) who makes pottery under the name Hokuryu (北龍), the third generation to use that name. Born in 1974, Umehara-san is one of Tokoname's younger kyusu craftsmen and succeeded his father as head of the kiln in 1998 when he took the Hokuryu name.

Tokoname-yaki (常滑焼) is a type of Japanese pottery that traditionally comes from Tokoname in Aichi Prefecture, Japan. The site of one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns, pottery has been made in Tokoname since the 12th century. 

Today, Tokoname ware is known for its iconic brick-red clay called shudei. Famously used in teaware and bonsai pots, this clay’s vibrant colour comes from its rich iron content. Tea steeped in unglazed Tokoname teapots is said to have a mellower taste.

Dimensions:

15.4cm (6.1in) - width (including handle)
7.9cm (3.1in) - height
300ml - capacity

Condition: New

This Japanese item ships from the United States.