[Junzo Maekawa] Shiroki-Hira Kyusu

#36 Shiroki-Hira Kyusu (White Extreme Flat Teapot) Capacity: 120ml **[About the Artist]** Artist: Junzo Maekawa Origin: Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture Junzo Maekawa, the fourth-generation master of a renowned kiln that has been operating in Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture, since the Taisho era, is a highly accomplished artist with a history of receiving the Prime Minister's Award. As a "scientist-artist" with a background in engineering, he thoroughly researches the functions of teaware, such as how clay affects the taste of tea and the critically important "drip-free spout." The smooth curves, meticulously shaped on the potter's wheel, and the perfect, immediate stop of the pour embody a sincere dedication to usability. Its most distinctive feature is the "Goku-Hira" (extreme flat) design with a wide base. The wider base prevents tea leaves from overlapping excessively, allowing them to unfurl leisurely within the teapot. This complete unfurling of the leaves facilitates the release of umami and sweetness, drawing out the rich, original flavors of high-quality sencha and gyokuro with a leisurely depth. You can enjoy a heart-enriching tea moment, observing the vibrant unfurling of the tea leaves as you open the lid and the beautiful transformation of the liquor's color. ============================================== **[About Tokoname-yaki Kyusu]** Tokoname City, with its long history and tradition dating back to the Edo period, is a leading production area for Japanese teapots. The clay, rich in iron oxide, reacts with the tannins in tea, softening bitterness and resulting in a mellow taste. Each teapot is carefully finished by skilled artisans, ensuring a comfortable experience with minimal leakage. Furthermore, its luster and texture deepen with time, offering a unique aesthetic that evolves with each use, making it a truly captivating piece. ============================================== **[Care and Maintenance]** - For daily cleaning, gently wash with water only, avoiding detergent. After use, dry thoroughly and store, ensuring no water remains in the tea strainer. - If tea stains are difficult to remove, dissolve baking soda in lukewarm water, gently rub with a soft cloth or toothbrush, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely before use. *Please note that we share inventory with our physical stores, so there may be instances of stockouts. We appreciate your understanding.*