Handcrafted Honshudei Teapot by Kondō Gissui 近藤義翠 230cc

Kondō Gissui（近藤義翠） (real name: Kondō Yoshikazu（近藤義一）) is a renowned Japanese ceramic artist known for his work in Tokoname-yaki（常滑焼）, one of Japan's six ancient kilns. He has been officially recognized by the Japanese government as a Traditional Craftsman（伝統工芸士）, a prestigious title awarded to artisans who have made exceptional contributions to traditional crafts.

Ceramic Career and Artistic Style

Kondō Gissui（近藤義翠） is especially acclaimed for his Tokoname-yaki（常滑焼） kyusu（急須） (side-handled teapots), and he is highly skilled in using the rare honshudei（本朱泥） clay. This clay is rich in iron and produces a distinctive red hue when fired. Over time and with use, the teapot’s surface develops a natural luster and smoothness. Due to urban development, honshudei（本朱泥） clay has become increasingly scarce, making his works even more valuable to collectors.

His creations blend traditional and contemporary aesthetics, characterized by simple forms and elegant lines. They reflect the Japanese wabi-sabi（侘寂） philosophy, which finds beauty in simplicity and imperfection. He often uses the sujihiki（筋挽き） technique—engraving fine lines on the teapot’s surface to enhance both texture and visual depth.

Historical Background of Tokoname-yaki（常滑焼）

Tokoname-yaki（常滑焼）, one of Japan’s six oldest kilns, dates back to the Heian period (around the 12th century). It is known for its red clay and highly functional tea ware. During the Edo period, with the growth of tea culture, Tokoname potters began refining red clay to create more delicate teapots. Over time, Tokoname-yaki（常滑焼） developed a variety of styles and techniques and became a significant representative of Japanese ceramic art.

Major Awards and Honors 

• Order of the Sacred Treasure, Silver Rays (2019) Conferred by the Japanese government for distinguished achievements in traditional crafts.
• Gold Prize – Choza Ceramic Art Exhibition Awarded four times, highlighting his excellence in ceramic artistry.
• Silver Prize – Choza Ceramic Art Exhibition Received four times, underscoring his consistent high-quality work.
• Chairperson's Prize – Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition Association Recognized for significant contributions to traditional Japanese crafts. 
• Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Award Acknowledged for promoting and preserving traditional industries. 
• Traditional Industry Expert Governor Award Honored for expertise and dedication to traditional industrial arts.
• Traditional Industry Contributor Governor Award Recognized for substantial contributions to the development of traditional industries.
• Ceramics Design Competition Awards Received multiple times for innovative designs in ceramics. Quality Chanoyu Articles Tableware Exhibition Awards Honored three times for outstanding tableware creations. 

-------------------------------------------

• 230cc / 7.7 fl oz
• Pottery/Tokoname Ware
• Japan 
• Dishwasher /NO, Microwave Oven /NO
• Please note as each piece is handmade, slight variation in shape and glazing may occur..