TENMOKU Kyusu (handcrafted: 300ml)

Handcrafted Kyusu
Dimension: 300ml (10.55fl oz)
Sophisticated Tokoname Yaki
Made by Shoji Umehara

Mr. Shoji Umehara is one of the pottery masters who is certified as a traditional craftsman, and TENMOKU Kyusu is one of his masterpieces. Gorgeous and elegant surface by TENMOKU glazing colors this teapot, and its round shape expresses gentility with dignity. His woodturning technique achieves extremely thin and light shape; it is among the best in Japan.

TENMOKU is an iron glaze traditionally known for its impenetrable and elusive nature. In ancient times, it was said that if an artisan tried to pursue TENMOKU glaze, they would become insolvent. It was developed 800 years ago, and many artisans pursed its technique, but few were successful. Because TENMOKU glaze was so difficult to create, it was a great honor for tea masters to acquire such precious earthenware at that time.

Unique pattern on the surface of the teapot is similar to the color inside a sea shell and seven bright color changes occur according the position from which it is viewed. Its pattern is slightly changed not only by the firing lot but also by the weather in each season. Indeed, each teapot is a unique treasure.

Spherically shaped Kyusu impresses the image of tenderness, but also gives a solid accent. Flapped bezel and curved design of spout emphasize its gentility. Glossy yet calm color matches the oval shape of the teapot, and its tender shape and TENMOKU color glazing interact beautifully.

This Kyusu is very thin and lightweight. The weight is 6.34oz (180g), which is about half the weight of most Kyusu of the same size. However, the clay is extremely strong. It requires a precise woodturning technique, therefore these special Kyusu are created only by the hand of skilled artisans and cannot be mass produced. Many craftsmen are not willing to make thin Kyusu because of the time and effort involved. However, it is traditionally said in the Tokoname region that the thinner and more lightweight, the higher the grade of Kyusu. The highest grade of Kyusu are extremely thin and lightweight. Even in the Tokoname region, Mr. Umehara's Kyusu are known as extremely high quality.

This teapot is a collaboration between traditional quite precious glazing and modern design; its beauty is both traditional and modern. Would you try brewing Japanese green tea with this teapot with its modern shape and TENMOKU glaze loved by ancient tea experts?

This is the most popular and convenient size, perfect for 1 - 3 people.
Ceramic fine mesh filter
Specially packaged in a special carton box.
Lead-free. Made in Japan.
(Please note that the size of the pattern is a little different in each work because of features of this work.)