Crimson Essence Teapot

This stunning 'Crimson Essence' teapot unpretentiously displays the extraordinary skills of the Tokoname artisans who create these beautiful pieces. The teapot's wide, tall body and subtle curves are reminiscent of centuries-old kyusu (clay teapot) designs, and the carefully sculpted spouts and gently flared handles also speak to the ancient influences at play. After all, the kilns at Tokoname are some of Japan's oldest. Meanwhile, modern touches such as the snug-fitting lid and a removable fine-mesh stainless steel strainer reflect this teapot's new-world influences. The captivating shade of natural crimson is developed from the imperial-red clay, a lakebed clay known as Shudei. The reserved red coloring is brought to life during the intricate firing process–a type of oxidizing firing that calls out the natural mineral contents of the clay and the subsequent crimson color. Tea aficionados find that teapots with naturally high iron content interact with the tea, opening up new flavor levels. While these tall, broad teapots are commonly used for brewing green, the fine mesh screen captures all varieties of loose-leaf tea.