Gently wash by hand with warm water and a soft cloth or sponge. Pat dry with a towel and/or leave to air dry naturally. Do not put in dishwasher or microwave.
Teacup
Tokoname Shiro
Natsuki Kondo
SKU
0124
Like a cracked open geode, this marvellous teacup handcrafted by up-and-coming Tokoname artist Natsuki Kondo has a wonderfully tactile, stone-like exterior that gives way to a gorgeous chartreuse heart. Suitable for serving all kinds of precious Japanese and Chinese teas.
| Item | Teacup |
|---|---|
| Origin | Tokoname, Aichi, Japan |
| Artist | Natsuki Kondo |
| Volume | 140ml |
| Dimensions | Ø9.5 x 5cm |
| Material | Ceramic |
| Glaze | Matte white, chartreuse |
| Packaging | Cardboard box |
Each piece is handmade and unique, therefore colour, volume and dimensions may vary slightly
Natsuki Kondo 近藤 奈津季
Born in Matsusaka, Mie Prefecture, in 1988, Natsuki Kondo is a 2024 graduate of the Tokoname Tounomori Ceramic Art Institute. Currently working in Tokoname, she is fascinated by the ancient art of hand-moulding, eschewing the potter's wheel to form pieces that combine the contradictory forces of tension and relaxation.
Kumidashi 汲み出し
The Kumidashi is a small handle-free teacup traditionally used to serve Sencha during Senchadō: the Japanese leaf tea ceremony (as opposed to Sadō for Matcha powdered green tea). Their wide, open shape make them particularly suitable for serving high-grade teas as this helps to amplify the aroma. Often sold in sets of five, Kumidashi are the choice of teacup when entertaining guests.
Tokoname-yaki 常滑焼
Pottery has been produced in the city of Tokoname, Aichi prefecture, as far back as the 12th century, and since 1976 has been protected as a Traditional Craft of Japan. Tokoname was the site of the largest and oldest of the legendary Rokkoyō (六古窯): the “Six Ancient Kilns” of Japan, and is celebrated for its iron-rich Shudei clay that turns a bright red after firing. When fired a second time in a reduction oven, the red Shudei turns black – another characteristic colour of Tokoname-yaki.
