This beautiful Tokoname kyusu was made by Shōryū (昭龍), the artist name of Shōji Umehara, a respected Japanese traditional craftsman known for his lightweight teapots and distinctive Shōryū Tenmoku finish.
Born in Tokoname in 1945, Shōryū spent decades refining his teapot-making technique. His work is especially known for being surprisingly light and carefully balanced, even when the body of the teapot looks substantial.
What makes this piece stand out is the surface. The dark brown-black exterior is covered with an irregular golden pattern that looks almost like tortoiseshell, cracked stone, or natural mineral veins. This effect is part of Shōryū’s own Tenmoku style, inspired by the expressive surfaces traditionally associated with Tenmoku ceramics.
The teapot itself has a rounded, full-bodied shape with a side handle, a classic form used for Japanese tea. The body, lid, spout, handle, and strainer are all made separately and carefully assembled. The red Tokoname clay can still be seen inside the handle and spout, creating a beautiful contrast with the darker exterior.
What makes Shōryū’s work special is the combination of function and artistry. The pot is made to be comfortable and practical for brewing, but the glaze and pattern also make every piece visually unique.
Artist: Shōryū (昭龍) / Shōji Umehara Origin: Tokoname, Aichi, Japan Material: Tokoname red clay with Shōryū Tenmoku finish Capacity: 240 ml
