Plum Blossom Gold Tenmoku Rear-handled Tokoname Teapot - 270ml

Name: Plum Blossom Gold Tenmoku Rear-handled Tokoname Teapot - 270ml
Brand: Shōryū Kiln
SKU: US-K233
Price: 218.00 USD
Availability: InStock

Shōryū Kiln

$218.00

This expertly crafted 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. The exterior of the pot is decorated with Shōryū's signature tenmoku (天目) effect, with spots of subtly iridescent colour. Unlike a true glaze, this effect is not vitreous and retains the clay's natural matte feel. The kyusu is further decorated with delicately hand-painted pink and white plum blossoms.

The lid knob is a metallic gold, with a texture echoing the tenmoku effect on the body.

The teapot's built-in ceramic sasame filter is perfect for naturally straining tea, with a wide shape for faster pouring and less clogging.

This kyusu was made by Umehara Shōji (梅原昭二) of Shōryū Kiln (昭龍窯). Born in 1945, Umehara-san has become well known for his unique tenmoku-inspired spin on classic Tokoname-yaki kyusu.

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

Born in Tokoname City in 1949, Umehara studied ceramics at a local high school before apprenticing under Hokuryu, a renowned master of Tokoname ware. Honing his wheel-throwing skills rigorously through strict training, he achieved independence in 1978 and founded his own studio, Shoryu Toen.

If there is a defining phrase for a Shoryu teapot, it is "exceptionally light and thin, yet durable." Since a teapot is held in one hand while pouring, its lightness represents the ultimate consideration for the user. His masterful technique of throwing the clay to its absolute thinnest—relying entirely on the tactile sensation of his fingertips and a profound knowledge of the clay's properties—earned him early acclaim, leading to his certification as a Traditional Craftsman of Tokoname Ware in 1994.