This unique gourd-shaped Tokoname-yaki yuzamashi (湯冷まし - water cooler) is made in the yakishime (焼締/焼〆) style and decorated is decorated with branches and stamped sakura (inka - 印花) inlaid with white slip in the mishima (三島) technique.

Made by award-winning Tokoname craftsman Tsuzuki Seihō (都築青峰). Born in 1944, Seihō-san excels in kyusu crafting and also makes Chinese style teapots and gaiwans from Tokoname clay.

Yuzamashi are used to cool down boiling water to a temperature more suitable for brewing green tea. When poured into a yuzamashi, boiling water cools to roughly 90°C, which then will cool to roughly 80°C when poured into a cold teapot. To cool water further, you can either let it sit in the yuzamashi for longer, or pour it into cups and then into the teapot.

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:

15.8cm (6.2in) - width
8.3cm (3.3in) - height
240ml - capacity

Condition: New

This Japanese item ships from the United States.