This Tokoname katakuchi (yuzamashi; water cooler) is thrown from the iconic Tokoname shudei (朱泥) clay, known for its brilliant red colour and ability to subtly reduce the astringency of tea.

The surface is unpolished and unsmoothed, in a style called sujihiki (筋引) which is a subtler variation of rokurome (ろくろ目 - potters' wheel marks) which shows the flow of the potter's fingers as they shaped the piece on the wheel.

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:

11.2cm (4.4in) - width
4.9cm (1.9in) - height
130ml - capacity

Condition: Excellent

This vintage Japanese item ships from Thailand.