This elegant rear-handled 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. It is decorated on the handle and the back of the body with stampedfuji(藤 - whisteria) leaves and flowers, inlaid with white and green slip in the mishima (三島) technique. Its round shape makes it a perfect all-purpose teapot.
Its built-in ceramic sasame filter is perfect for naturally straining tea, with a wide shape for faster pouring and less clogging.
Specifications
Made in Japan. Ships from the United States.
Width: 11.9 cm (4.69 in)(including handle)
Height: 7.9 cm (3.11 in)
Capacity: 180 ml (6.09 oz)
Please note that due to the organic nature of handmade teaware, there are subtle variations between pieces, with each teapot being slightly unique in shape, design, and color.
Tokoname-yaki Ceramics
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.
Meet Tsuzuki Seihō (都築青峰)About the Artist
Born on April 5, 1944, in Tokoname, Aichi Prefecture, Seiho Tsuzuki (Takao Tsuzuki) is a master teapot artist who has devoted his life to expanding the artistic possibilities of Tokoname ware. In 1964, at the age of twenty, he established his own studio. Since then, he has dedicated himself almost exclusively to the creation of kyusu, pursuing a vision that honours the rich traditions of Tokoname while remaining deeply personal and unmistakably his own.
In his late seventies, he began exploring relief carving and sculptural surface decoration. More recently, he has combined carving with his signature impressed decoration, creating richly layered works that unite multiple decorative disciplines into a single harmonious composition. These pieces demonstrate not only technical mastery but also an unwavering desire to continue evolving as an artist.
