Tokoname-yaki Teapot by Shōji Umehara - Handmade Japanese Kyusu | TENMOKU

This exceptional kyusu is the work of Shōji Umehara (梅原昭二), the Tokoname artisan known by his artistic name Shōryū (昇龍). A master of traditional kyusu making, Umehara is particularly renowned for his distinctive Tenmoku surface, developed through years of experimentation with clay, firing and glaze.

The result is a teapot with remarkable visual depth. Its dark grey black surface is covered in an intricate network of organic cells, shifting between matte charcoal, metallic grey and subtle reflective tones as the light moves across it. The pattern gives the surface an almost geological quality, while the rounded body and precisely formed side handle retain the unmistakable elegance of a Tokoname kyusu.

The Artistry

Shōji Umehara: Master of Shōryū Tenmoku

Born in Tokoname in 1945, Umehara studied under the ceramic artist Hokuryū before establishing himself independently in 1978 under the name Shōryū. He was recognised as a Certified Traditional Craftsman in 1994 and has received numerous honours for his contribution to Japanese traditional craft.

His practice centres on the kyusu, but his work extends beyond simply reproducing traditional forms. Umehara has spent decades refining his own clay bodies, forms and surface techniques, creating teapots that combine the technical demands of Tokoname craftsmanship with a highly individual artistic language.

Shōryū Tenmoku: A Surface Created Through Light, Clay & Fire

The defining feature of this kyusu is Shōryū Tenmoku, Umehara's distinctive interpretation of Tenmoku.

Rather than a uniform black glaze, the surface develops a complex pattern of interlocking forms across the body and lid. The effect changes with the angle of light, revealing subtle variations in tone and sheen beneath the dark surface.

Umehara reportedly spent several years developing the technique, carefully controlling the relationship between clay, glaze and firing. The precise process remains closely guarded, making Shōryū Tenmoku a distinctly personal expression of the artist's craft.

The result is a surface that feels almost alive. No two pieces develop exactly the same pattern, making each Shōryū Tenmoku kyusu an individual work.

Product Details

+ Dimension: Approx. 95mm (Body + Spout) x 120mm (Body + Handle) x H:100mm

+ Region: Tokoname, Aichi, Japan

+ Potter: Shōji Umehara (梅原昭二)

+ Material: Black Clay

+ Capacity: 230ml