Large Seagrass Tokoname Japanese Teapot by Gyoko (11.5oz/340ml)

Why We Love It

This Kyusu Teapot (9.8oz/280ml) features a extraordinary seagrass pattern. The teapot is fired with the mogake technique, mo meaning “seaweed”, and gake signifying “wrapping” in Japanese. The seaweed wrapping is put in place before firing, and the salt in the dried plant causes chemical reactions that create unique patterns. This is an fascinating technique native to the Tokoname region.

This teapot features a semi-handmade ceramic strainer, named sasame. Developed in Tokoname and made of clay, this filter has numerous tiny holes on its surface. The filter’s shape is manufactured by the artist, and the holes are made by using a special tool (puncher).

The tea leaves have room to spread in hot water, bringing the original taste and aroma of the tea. This traditional strainer can also be used with very fine tea leaves, such as deep-steamed tea (fukamushi sencha) but must be carefully cleaned to avoid clogging. It works perfectly with larger or curled tea leaves, such as tamaryokucha.

This teapot is suitable for any types of tea. Sencha (middle- to high-grade green tea) and kariganecha (high-grade stem tea) are especially recommended.

Why Choose a Teapot from Tokoname 

Tokoname teapots and teacups are lightweight, resistant, smooth, and particularly easy to use. Green tea enthusiasts swear by the taste that Tokoname clay imparts to the tea. It is said that the iron contained in Tokoname clay softens the astringency and adds roundness to Japanese green tea. Moreover, Tokoname teapots take on a patina over time: the tea brewed in these kyusu gains in quality. Each teapot is fired with its lid placed on. Consequently, the lids are extremely airtight.

Tokoname-yaki ware is produced in the area around the town of Tokoname, in Aichi prefecture, and is one of the Six Ancient Kilns of Japan. Tokoname is the center of teapot production in Japan: nowadays, there are numerous kilns in activity, with artisans still pursuing traditional techniques.

This teapot is handcrafted by Gyoko Kiln. Gyoko has been honored for his work at the Choza Ceramic Exhibition and at various national competitions. He masters the fire reduction like no other!

Caring For Your Kyusu Teapot

After use, the teapot should be rinsed thoroughly with hot water, which will help it to dry faster. Store in a well-ventilated area, and do not replace the lid before the inside is completely dry. Pay attention to the interior of the spout, which remains wet for a long time.

Details

• Kyusu Teapot
• Handmade in Japan
• Free gift-wrapping in Japanese furoshiki cloth
• Unique seagrass pattern
• As each handmade product is unique, there may be small differences in size, color and pattern from the photographs above.
• Size: ⌀ 3.9” (10cm), width 6.3” (16cm), height 4.3” (11cm)
• Capacity: 11.5oz (340ml)
• Code: 94912BR