HOEN Yunomi - JOCHO- pair (by Eizan Okuda)

Handcrafted Teacup: 70ml (2.36fl oz) each, diameter: 2.36inches (6.0cm) height: 3.54inches (9cm)
Traditional ANAGAMA pottery.
Made by Eizan Okuda

This Yunomi, with its square body and rounded mouth, is a special masterpiece created to commemorate the 80th birthday (East Asian age reckoning) of artisan Mr. Eizan Okuda. The unique shape and the gradation of patterns created by the traditional firing method of the ANAGAMA kiln make this Yunomi extremely distinguished.

This unique shape is formed by a traditional method called TATARA, which predates the advent of the potter's wheel. After being molded by wrapping clay around a square pillar, it is carefully shaped to have a rounded mouth. This technique is used to create masterpieces because, like forming by hand, it is time consuming but suitable for creating a unique atmosphere. The front of the Yunomi is engraved with the word JOCHO in KANJI characters. The word JOCHO represents a wish for good health and family prosperity. The mark “SANJYU EIZAN” is also engraved on the inside of the KOHDAI Base. SANJYU is a word to celebrate 80 years of age in Japan.

HO means square and EN means circle. It is said that a tea master should have a masterpiece of the HOEN form. The contrast between the round mouth, KOHDAI base, and square body is very unique and beautiful, and has been loved by successive generations of tea masters. It is said that the place where these contradictory features harmonize has a WABI SABI charm.

This Yunomi was fired in the ANAGAMA kiln. The color and pattern of each ANAGAMA ceramic is completely unique. There is never one ANAGAMA the same as any other. The smoky patterns of the ANAGAMA are created by soil, wood ash, and fire in the ANAGAMA kiln.

Along with the gradation from light brown to dark brown, there are small craters where the feldspar component in the clay has burst. This feature is created by burning red pine for three to four days without rest at the ANAMAGA kiln. Also, depending on the angle of view, you can also enjoy the glass-like texture of the BEEDRO glaze and the various color gradations from gold, ochre, light gray to dark gray. The limestone white glaze runs down the inside, giving it a glossy appearance. On this surface, you’ll find a brown and reddish color, too. This special color, called HIIRO, is one of the characteristics of the Yunomi. The contrast between the matte and glossy textures also amplifies the appeal of this Yunomi.

It is an exquisite combination of the HOEN form loved by successive generations of tea masters and the distinguished colors and textures created by the natural ash glaze of the ANAGAMA kiln. Enjoying our genuine green tea in this special Yunomi will surely take you deeper into the world of Japanese tea.

Specially packaged in a carton box.
Lead-free. Made in Japan.
(Please note that each piece is unique due to the techniques employed by the craftsman. There are natural variations in each piece.)