This skillfully made Tokoname-yaki kyusu (teapot) is made 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. It is further decorated by cuts made in the surface which produce a scale like pattern. This cuts are accentuated in 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.

Made by Hōryū (宝龍).

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

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:

17.3cm (6.8in) - width (including handle)
8.5cm (3.3in) - height
320ml - capacity

Condition: New

This Japanese item ships from the United States.