Floral Mishima Yohen Tokoname Teapot - 290ml

This expertly crafted hira-gata Tokoname-yaki kyusu (teapot) is made from 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. Yōhen (窯変), which means "changed by the kiln", refers to the attractive gradient from bronze to black across the pot caused by specific firing conditions. The pot is decorated with an inka (印花 - stamped flowers) pattern that descends from Korean mishima (三島) wares, but forgoes the white slip inlay. A testament to Isobe's incredible craftsmanship, this kyusu is incredibly light for its size.

This kyusu's wider, flatter shape helps extract umami from high-grade sencha and gyokuro by providing space for the leaves to unfurl even with little water. It boasts a wide top opening so you can watch the leaves unfurl as they steep and clean them out more easily.

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

This piece was made by the highly-respected Teruyuki Isobe (磯部輝之). Born in 1938, Isobe-san honed his skills at the well-known Takasuke workshop for 53 years, before leaving to make kyusu under his own name, earning his spot as one of the most exalted kyusu craftsman today, known for unique style and incredible skill at making lightweight kyusu.