This exquisitely crafted Tokoname-yaki houhin (handleless teapot) is made from a light brown clay, decorated with a hidasuki (緋襷) pattern. This traditional decoration is created when the potter wraps rice straw around a piece before placing it into the kiln, where the alkalines in the straw react with iron in the clay body to produce these striking scarlet burn marks. Due to the organic nature of this process, each piece will be different.

The houhin has a unique, taller shape, with braided clay side handles which keep your fingers from getting burned when brewing with hotter water.

This piece was made by Tanikawa Jin (谷川仁). Born in 1952, Tanikawa-san is known for his work in mogake and hidasuki decorations. As a practitioner of senchadō (煎茶道 - sencha tea ceremony), his wares are designed to be both beautiful and functional.

As these are handmade pieces, there may be slight variations in the shape and colouration.

The houhin comes in its original kiribako (桐箱 - paulownia wood box) signed and sealed by the artist.

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:

9.5cm (3.7in) - width
8.2cm (3.2in) - height
100ml - capacity

Condition: New

This Japanese item ships from the United States.