Red and Indigo Chrysanthemum Round Kyusū Tea Pot by Baizan-gama

This chrysanthemum pattern teapot was made at the Baizan kiln in the Tobe-ware region of Ehime.

A kyūsu style side handled teapot, it is decorated with gosu (indigo blue) and red brush strokes. The pot is circular in its central portion, and dominated by the striking chrysanthemum petals of colour on its surface. The angled handle allows for a good grip, and the perforated inner dome prevents leaves entering the cup.

It is around 9cm high, and 17cm at its longest point (from the tip of the handle). It weighs 450g.

About Tobe-ware / Baizan-gama.

Tobe-ware is a tradition in blue and white ceramics in Ehime, on Japan’s Shikoku island. It has its origins in the late 18th century decision of the local feudal domain to import potters from the large porcelain region of Arita. Since then Tobe-ware has continued in a parallel tradition, and is known today for its small family kilns, and dedication to hand painted techniques.

The Baizan kiln was founded in 1882 by Masagorō Umeno, and stands today at the centre of Tobe-ware production. A family business now in its fourth generation, it remains true to the traditional processes in working with porcelain. Round shapes are formed on the pottery wheel, others are made with moulds. After a bisque firing at 940 degrees, the pieces are hand painted in the cobalt blue, and reds of the Tobe style, before a final firing for 22 hours at 1235 degrees.

Baizan-gama is particularly known for its arabesque pattern of intertwining stems, but has a deep repertoire of patterns and shapes, that provide interest in food presentation, and a window into the traditions of Tobe-ware in Ehime.