Black Gold Tenmoku Tokoname Teapot
Best artisanal teapot for tea enthusiasts seeking authentic Japanese craftsmanship.
Experience the refined art of Japanese tea with this handcrafted kyusu, a testament to traditional Tokoname-yaki pottery. Crafted from deep black kokudei clay, its surface boasts a unique tenmoku glaze, shimmering with subtle iridescent spots against a natural matte finish. An elegant golden lid adds a refined touch. This teapot features a built-in ceramic sasame filter, ingeniously designed wide for efficient straining and rapid pouring. The iron-rich clay, characteristic of Tokoname-yaki, is believed to mellow the tea's taste, promising a superior and authentic brewing experience.
$498.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
373
/ 3131
#373 in Coffee Servers & Tea Pots
Price vs Category Average
+145%
Above average
Material
Ceramic (Tokoname-yaki Kokudei clay)
/ Ceramic (Tokoname-yaki Kokudei clay)
Who it's for
- Design enthusiasts seeking a sophisticated, visually dynamic centerpiece
- Tea connoisseurs looking to soften tannins and enhance flavor profiles
- Serious brewers valuing ergonomic precision and artisanal build quality
Who should skip it
- Visual brewers who rely on liquor color to gauge steeping
- Budget-conscious shoppers prioritizing value over handcrafted exclusivity
- Busy households needing low-maintenance, dishwasher-safe kitchenware
Performance breakdown
Artisanal Craftsmanship
Hand-thrown precision by Shōji Umehara elevates this beyond standard production ware.
Filtration Efficiency
The wide ceramic sasame filter ensures rapid, clog-free pouring every time.
Material Performance
Iron-rich kokudei clay actively softens tea tannins for a smoother profile.
Ergonomic Handling
Balanced weight and thoughtful geometry make for a comfortable, controlled pour.
Aesthetic Appeal
The tenmoku glaze and golden lid create a striking, sophisticated centerpiece.
Brewing Capacity
Ideal for intimate solo sessions or serving two small traditional cups.
Key Specs
Material
Ceramic (Tokoname-yaki Kokudei clay)
Capacity
270 ml (9.13 oz)
Width
13 cm (5.1 in) (Widest Point)
Height
8.2 cm (3.2 in)
Lid Type
Removable Golden lid
Filter Type
Permanent Mesh Filter
Base Type
Flat Base
Handle Material
Ceramic
Know before you buy
The iron content in Tokoname-yaki clay is known to react with the tannins in tea, which can help reduce bitterness and create a smoother, more mellow flavor profile.
Yes, the ceramic sasame filter is precision-crafted to handle fine tea leaves. Its wide surface area prevents clogging while ensuring a fast, consistent pour.
Rinse the teapot with warm water immediately after use and allow it to air dry thoroughly. Avoid using soap or abrasive scrubbers, as the porous nature of the clay can absorb scents and residues.
Because this teapot is unglazed on the interior, it will develop a 'seasoning' over time. It is best to dedicate this pot to one specific category of tea, such as Japanese green teas, to avoid flavor cross-contamination.
The golden lid is a refined aesthetic accent that is durable for daily use. Simply handle it with the same care as the rest of the ceramic body and avoid using harsh chemicals or metal scouring pads on the finish.
A 270 ml capacity is ideal for serving one to two people. It is perfectly sized for traditional Japanese tea ceremonies where smaller, concentrated infusions are preferred.
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