Floral Carving Japanese Tea Set

Finished in shidei (purple clay) hue with a calm, understated sheen, this Banko ware teapot and two teacups set comes from a historic pottery region neighboring Tokoname, long regarded as one of Japan’s centers for fine tea ware.

Each piece is thrown on the potter’s wheel and finished with precise, balanced lines. The surface is decorated using a traditional technique called biri: as the wheel turns, the potter carves the clay with a small plane, creating fine, rhythmic grooves that catch the light. Delicate floral motifs are added by hand, gently framing the carved pattern rather than overwhelming it.

The teapot lid fits the body with remarkable accuracy, tracing the outline of the floral form—an alignment that speaks to a craftsperson who has devoted years specifically to making teapots. It features a built-in ceramic strainer that gently draws out the tea leaves’ aroma and umami for a smooth, well-rounded cup. This is not just a tea set, but a vessel where clay, technique, and history come together to accompany quiet moments of tea.

The set is presented in a high-quality wooden box, finished with hand-brushed calligraphy on the lid. The overall impression is composed and refined, making it a piece that feels at home in a thoughtful interior. It is a set to enjoy yourself, and just as fitting as a considered gift for someone special.

Masaki Kiln

Tachi Masaki is a master of traditional craft, specializing in Banko ware kyusu teapots. In his early twenties, he received the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry prize and was hailed as a “prodigy” in ceramics. Since then, he has preserved the traditions of Banko ware while creating works attuned to contemporary sensibilities.

His Banko ware teapots are made from iron-rich red clay that turns deep blue-black in a reduction firing, then re-oxidizes into the shidei (purple clay) hue. His work is recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Yokkaichi for its superb craftsmanship.

Articles Yokkaichi Banko

De la vaisselle du quotidien aux vases à fleurs, la céramique Banko de Yokkaichi, communément appelée « céramique Banko » , est réputée pour sa remarquable variété. Parmi ses créations les plus emblématiques figure le donabe, ou pot japonais en terre cuite. Apprécié pour sa durabilité et sa rétention de la chaleur, il est devenu un incontournable des repas maison. Aujourd'hui, environ 80 % des donabe produits au Japon sont des articles Banko.

La céramique Banko est née au milieu de l'époque d'Edo (1603-1868) , lorsqu'un amateur de thé cultivé, Nunami Rozan, commença à fabriquer des céramiques dans l'actuelle Kuwana, dans la préfecture de Mie. Plutôt que de donner à la céramique le nom de sa région, il choisit le mot « Kuwana » . banque «  »  — signifiant « éternité »  — , comme un vœu que ses créations perdurent pendant des générations. Cet esprit de pérennité perdure aujourd'hui et, en reconnaissance de sa valeur culturelle et historique, la céramique Banko a été classée artisanat traditionnel par le ministère japonais de l'Économie, du Commerce et de l'Industrie en 1979.