Mogake Yakishime Tokoname Teapot - 90ml

Name: Mogake Yakishime Tokoname Teapot - 90ml
Brand: Itō Seiji
SKU: US-K236
Price: 332.00 USD
Availability: InStock

Itō Seiji

$332.00

This exquisitely crafted hira-gata Tokoname-yaki kyusu (teapot) has a flat shape made from a fine beige clay fired in the yakishime (焼締/焼〆) style. On top of this, the kyusu is 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.

The teapot's built-in ceramic filter is perfect for naturally straining tea.

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.

Illustrated map of Japan highlighting Tokoname, Aichi — the production region of Tokoname-yaki pottery

Itō Seiji (伊藤成二) is the second-generation head of Jinshū Pottery (甚秋陶園). Born in 1949, Itō-san shifted away from the mass-production style of his father towards more individualist wares, focusing primarily on kyusu. Today, Jinshū's name is almost synonymous with his exquisite hira-kyusu (flat teapots).