Linear Carving Japanese Tea Set

Finished in shidei (purple clay) hue with a calm, understated sheen, this Banko ware linear carving 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.

The lid fits the body with a satisfying, seamless precision. It features a built-in ceramic strainer, which gently draws out the tea leaves’ aroma and umami for a smooth, well-rounded cup. Left unglazed, the surface gradually develops a richer sheen through everyday handling, offering the quiet pleasure of seeing the piece grow more beautiful with use.

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, where the potter carves the clay with a small plane as the wheel turns, creating fine, rhythmic grooves that catch the light.

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.