Tokoname-yaki Kyusu by Fujita Tokuta - Handmade Japanese Teapot | MARU

Handmade in Tokoname by ceramic artist Fujita Tokuta (藤田徳太), this kyusu pairs a rounded, almost globular body with an elongated side handle and precisely tapered spout.

Its dark grey surface is scattered with pale silver-grey markings, giving the teapot a mineral-like character that shifts subtly with the light. Rather than appearing completely uniform, the surface carries small variations in tone and texture across the lid, body, spout and handle, bringing depth to an otherwise minimal form.

The result feels distinctly contemporary, yet remains grounded in the functional language of the traditional yokode kyusu.

The Artistry Behind the Teapot

• A Study in Form: The near-spherical body gives the teapot a strong sculptural presence while creating a generous internal chamber for tea leaves to open during infusion.
• Layered Grey Surface: Charcoal, graphite and soft silver-grey tones move across the exterior, creating a subtle mottled finish that becomes more apparent as the teapot catches the light.
• Balanced Proportions: The rounded body is offset by a narrow spout and an elongated side handle, creating a visual balance between fullness and precision.
• Made by Fujita Tokuta: Fujita approaches Tokoname teaware from a background in contemporary ceramics, combining the technical requirements of a functional kyusu with a more individual exploration of form and surface

Designed Around the Tea

Beyond its sculptural appearance, the teapot remains firmly designed for brewing.

The rounded chamber gives loose leaves room to circulate freely in the water, while the traditional side handle allows the pot to be lifted and poured with a controlled movement of the wrist.

A built-in ceramic filter keeps the brewing space open without the need for a separate metal strainer, an approach commonly found in finely made Tokoname kyusu. Fujita’s other teapots also use integrated ceramic filters designed to support a clean, efficient pour. 

Product Details

+ Dimension: Approx. 120mm (Body + Spout) x 145mm (Body + Handle) x H:90mm

+ Region: Tokoname, Aichi, Japan

+ Artist: Fujita Tokuta (藤田徳太)

+ Capacity: Circa 330ml

Pairs beautifully with SUMI Handmade Teacup

A Contemporary Expression of Tokoname

Tokoname has more than 900 years of ceramic history and is recognised as one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns. While its teapots are strongly associated with traditional red shudei clay, contemporary artists such as Fujita continue to broaden what Tokoname-yaki can look like through different clay bodies, surfaces and forms.