This hiramaru-gata Tokoname-yaki kyusu (teapot) is made in the yakishime (焼締/焼〆) style from a grey-beige Tokoname clay, which has similar properties as the iconic red shudei (朱泥). This intermediate shape between round and extremely flat makes it great for brewing both high-grade senchas and gyokuros, but also for all-round purposes.
This flatter shape and small size promote even contact between the leaves and the water, aiding the extraction of umami from high-grade sencha and gyokuro. It boasts a wide top opening so you can watch the leaves unfurl as they steep and clean them out more easily.
The teapot's built-in ceramic sasame filter is perfect for naturally straining tea. Please note: A flat kyusu requires very gentle and slow pours to avoid leaks around the lid. It takes a bit of practice to get familiar with compared to the larger, rounder kyusu with a more elevated spout.
This piece was made by the highly-respected Gyokko (玉光) Kiln, manned by the master potters of the Umehara family.
