This stunning marbled Tokoname-yaki tea set consists of a kyusu (teapot) and a pair of teacups, each made from multiple colours of clay kneaded into a white clay base in the nerikomi (練り込み) technique. The pieces are further decorated with a layer of greenish slip with round dots scooped out, revealing the marbled white colour underneath. This traditional pattern is called mizutama (水玉 - water drop).
The teapot's built-in ceramic sasame filter is perfect for naturally straining tea, with a wide shape for faster pouring and less clogging. Its generous 400ml capacity makes it great for larger brews or group servings.
Specifications
Made in Japan. Ships from the United States.
Teapot:
Width: 15.5 cm (6.1 in)
Height: 10 cm (3.94 in)
Capacity: 400 ml (13.53 oz)
Cups:
Width: 7.6 cm (2.99 in)
Height: 4.8 cm (1.89 in)
Capacity: 110 ml (3.72 oz)
Please note that due to the organic nature of handmade teaware, there are subtle variations between pieces, with each piece being slightly unique in shape and design.
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.
About Nerikomi
Nerikomi (練り込み) is a pottery technique in which multiple coloured clays are kneaded together to produce a stunning marbled effect. This technique is almost exclusively used on unglazed wares, allowing the full effect to be shown in the bare clay. Often, slices or cuts are made into the surface of the pot to reveal even more layering and marbling.
Similar techniques are sometimes called agateware for the resemblance to the layers in agate.
Meet Hotta Takumi (Kenji Kiln)About the Artist
Today, Kenji Touen is especially recognized for its distinctive nerikomi technique. Multiple layers of differently colored clay are carefully combined while intentionally avoiding complete blending, creating patterns reminiscent of wood grain or geological strata. After wheel-throwing, delicate polka-dot carvings are applied to the surface, subtly revealing the layered colors beneath and giving each vessel a rich sense of depth and movement.
At the heart of Kenji Touen are second-generation kiln owner Takumi Hotta and his wife, Hisae Hotta. The two met while studying at the Tokoname Pottery Footpath Ceramic Art Institute, where they trained as ceramic apprentices. Takumi, a native of Tokoname, completed the program in 2014 as part of its 30th graduating class, while Hisae, originally from Adachi-ku, Tokyo, graduated in 2012 from the 28th class.
