This exquisitely crafted Tokoname-yaki kyusu (teapot) is made from the iconic Tokoname shudei (朱泥) clay, decorated with an intricate web of fine mogake (藻掛 - seaweed wrapping) patterns. As the name suggests, this traditional Tokoname technique that dates back to the Edo period is achieved by wrapping each piece with amamo seaweed before firing. In the kiln, the seaweed burns off, leaving its carbonised silhouette draped across pot.
This kyusu's wider, flatter shape helps extract umami from high-grade sencha and gyokuro. It boasts a wide top opening so you can watch the leaves unfurl as they steep and clean them out more easily.
Its built-in ceramic sasame filter is perfect for naturally straining tea, with a wide shape for faster pouring and less clogging.
This piece was made by the highly-respected Gyokko (玉光) Kiln, manned by the master potters of the Umehara family. As these are handmade pieces, there may be slight variations in the shape and colouration.
