Soft-Sheen Japanese Tea Set

This tea set pairs a Banko ware teapot with two matching cups, finished in shidei (purple clay) hue that carries a calm, understated sheen. Banko ware comes from an area neighboring Tokoname and has long been respected in Japan as the birthplace of fine tea vessels. Every piece here is wheel-thrown, giving the silhouettes a poised, well-proportioned presence that feels quietly confident on the table.

The teapot lid seats with a precise, reassuring fit, evidence of an artisan who knows Banko teapots inside and out. It features a built-in ceramic strainer, which gently draws out the tea leaves’ aroma and umami for a smooth, well-rounded cup. Because the teapot is left unglazed, its surface gradually gains depth and luster through use, letting you enjoy the slow, intimate pleasure of a tool that matures alongside your daily ritual.

The set is presented in a high-quality wooden box, carefully fitted and finished with hand-brushed calligraphy on the lid. Its crisp, dignified look adds a sense of occasion, making this collection as suitable for your own home as it is for a thoughtful gift—one that’s sure to be appreciated by anyone who values craft, tea, and time well spent.

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.