Bizen Houhin Wood-fired Tea Preparation Vessel | Japanese Green Teas, 180 ml.

STYLE

Houhin is a ceremonial, unglazed, wood-fired teapot with a strainer, elegantly curved spout, and a lid featuring a hexagonal prism handle for an excellent grip. The ash that has settled on the wall of the vessel creates a beautiful, glassy layer that highlights the diverse colors formed as a result of the flames and the unique atmosphere of the kiln.

Every year Kazuhiko-san creates classic houhin shapes upon our teahouse’s request. Since our visit to the Master’s workshop, he has crafted many beautiful ceramics based on our shared ideas. The artisan, who has been working with Bizen wood-fired ceramics for about 25 years, is a regular participant in exhibitions. From the spring 2024 firing, we have received stunning wood-fired ceramics adorned with remarkable Bizen patterns—landscapes—once again incorporating unique, fresh ideas to blend with classic forms.

Bizen clay is rich in iron and is typically mined from a depth of 4-5 meters beneath rice fields. The firing process can last as long as 14-15 days, consuming an immense amount of wood. The various patterns are partly due to the arrangement of the pieces inside the kiln, but chance also plays a role. Bizen ceramics are typically unglazed, yet those fired close to the flames may bear a glass-like ash imprint. Bizen ceramics are classified based on their patterns, such as hidasuki (fire cords), sangiri (charcoal covering), fuseyaki (overlap), botamochi (rice cake), and ao-bizen (blue Bizen). The patterns that appear on the ceramics are often referred to as landscapes or scenic views.

MATERIAL

Bizen Clay, Wood-fired pottery

DIMENSIONS

Capacity: 180 ml.

SIGNATURE/ARTIST

Kazuhiko Uchida

CONDITION

New