Sienna Echo Kyusu

Warm terracotta tones and richly textured surfaces give this kyusu a distinctive, earthy presence. Across its straight-sided body, irregular horizontal markings create a layered pattern reminiscent of weathered stone, while fine concentric lines sweep around the gently domed lid. The contrast between these two textures brings depth and movement to the otherwise simple silhouette.

A rounded, slightly elongated knob rises from the center of the lid. The compact spout and long side handle, which widens towards its open end, balance the teapot's broad proportions. Smooth sections of unglazed clay around the handle and spout provide a quiet contrast to the textured body.

Inside, a multi-hole clay filter holds back the leaves during pouring. With its broad interior and 160 ml capacity, this handmade Tokoname kyusu offers space for Japanese green tea leaves to open during infusion.

Explore more pieces in the Sienna collection: Sienna Horizon Kyusu, Sienna Hearth Kyusu, Sienna Dawn Shiboridashi, Sienna Strata Cup.

Written by Sven

About Gyokko

Founded in 1961, Gyokko is a family-run shokunin pottery workshop in Tokoname, one of Japan's Six Ancient Kilns. Now in its third generation, the studio produces handmade Japanese teaware, including kyusu teapots, shiboridashi and tea cups, combining traditional craftsmanship with precision, functionality and understated beauty.

The production of a Gyokko teapot involves around 40 steps, shared among experienced craftspeople. The body, lid, spout and handle are individually shaped and carefully assembled. Particular attention is paid to the fit of the lid, the angle of the spout for a clean pour, and the position of the handle for comfortable use. The result is teaware that combines the subtle character of handmade ceramics with the reliability and refinement of skilled craftsmanship.

Below is a video of our visit to the Gyokko workshop in Tokoname, where we commissioned the teaware pieces now available at the Nannuoshan shop.

Japanese teaware categories

Japanese teaware can broadly be distinguished into three categories: kikai, commercially produced teaware; shokunin, handmade pieces made by skilled craftspeople; and sakka, works by individual ceramic artists.

Gyokko belongs to the shokunin tradition, where a master develops original designs that skilled potters reproduce entirely by hand. The emphasis is on technical mastery, functionality, and ergonomics. Rather than creating one-of-a-kind art objects, the workshop produces carefully designed pieces that excel in handling and pouring, combining remarkable consistency with the craftsmanship of handmade teaware at an accessible price.

Learn more about the three levels of Japanese pottery in this video.