{"title":"Konishi Tōko Kiln","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eKonishi Tōko is a historic Bizen-yaki family kiln based in Imbe, Okayama Prefecture, with roots in a multigenerational ceramic lineage. The kiln was founded by the first-generation Konishi Tōko, Konishi Tōichirō, grandson of the noted craftsman Nagami Tōraku. From its beginnings, Konishi Tōko became known for a strong commitment to traditional Bizen firing and for work defined by quality, precision, and material character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eA defining part of the kiln’s legacy is its association with \u003cb\u003esangiri\u003c\/b\u003e, the dramatic firing effect for which the first-generation Tōko became especially known. He is credited with developing a method for producing sangiri intentionally rather than leaving it entirely to chance, helping establish Konishi Tōko as one of the notable names in Bizen ware. The kiln also became respected for finely worked pieces, including tea utensils and sculptural objects distinguished by careful finish and strong individuality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe lineage continued with the second-generation Konishi Tōko, Konishi Mitsue, daughter of the founder, who inherited the kiln and worked with one of the largest traditional climbing kilns in Imbe. Today, the kiln’s works are supervised by \u003cb\u003eKonishi Tōzō\u003c\/b\u003e, the founder’s grandson, whose own career has brought major distinction to Bizen ware. In that sense, Konishi Tōko stands not only as an important kiln in its own right, but also as part of the broader family lineage connected to Konishi Tōzō’s artistic practice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eKonishi Tōko represents a living continuation of Bizen tradition through lineage, firing, and form, carrying forward a ceramic heritage shaped by generations of making in Imbe.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"japanese-bizen-ware-yunomi-teacups-hand-carved-crab-motif-unglazed-japanese-stoneware-160ml-konishi-toko","title":"Yunomi Teacups, \"Crab Motif\" Pair - Bizen-Yaki - Konishi Toko","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"162\"\u003eThis is a matched pair of Bizen-ware yunomi teacups by Konishi Toko, working in Imbe, Okayama—home of one of Japan’s oldest and most respected ceramic traditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"164\" data-end=\"439\"\u003eKonishi Toko is a family kiln closely related to the renowned Bizen master Konishi Tozo, a lineage known for disciplined firing, quiet forms, and deep respect for classical Bizen aesthetics. This connection is evident in the restraint, balance, and seriousness of these cups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"441\" data-end=\"704\"\u003eEach yunomi is unglazed, formed from iron-rich Bizen clay, and fired for days in a traditional kiln. The surfaces are shaped entirely by flame, ash, and placement—revealing layered earth tones, natural fire markings, and subtle variations that cannot be repeated.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"706\" data-end=\"916\"\u003eA finely hand-carved crab motif emerges directly from the clay. It is not painted or applied, but carved with restraint—meant to be discovered slowly through touch and use rather than announced at first glance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"918\" data-end=\"1134\"\u003eWith a capacity of approximately 160 ml, these yunomi are ideal for sencha, hōjicha, or everyday tea. Over time, the clay will gently darken and soften as it absorbs tea oils, developing a patina unique to the owner.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1136\" data-end=\"1277\"\u003eEach cup is signed by the artist and represents authentic, functional Bizen ware—made for daily use, yet fully worthy of a collector’s shelf.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1279\" data-end=\"1290\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1279\" data-end=\"1290\"\u003eDetails\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1292\" data-end=\"1487\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003eOrigin: Imbe, Okayama, Japan\u003cbr\u003eArtist: Konishi Toko Kiln (family kiln related to Konishi Tozo)\u003cbr\u003eWare: Bizen-yaki (unglazed stoneware)\u003cbr\u003eFinish: Unglazed\u003cbr\u003eMaterial: Bizen clay\u003cbr\u003eCapacity: approx. 160 ml each\u003cbr\u003eQuantity: 2x yunomi teacups\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Artisanal Japan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44560804282483,"sku":null,"price":149.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0701\/2286\/4755\/files\/JapaneseBizenWareYunomiTeacups_Hand-CarvedCrabMotif_UnglazedJapaneseStoneware160ml_4.png?v=1774985833"},{"product_id":"hidasuki-bizen-ware-yunomi-tea-cup-set-dragon-carved-stoneware-60ml-5pc","title":"Hidasuki Yunomi Teacups, \"Dragon Motif\", 5-Pc Set - Bizen-Yaki - Konishi Toko Kiln","description":"\u003cp data-end=\"167\" data-start=\"0\"\u003eThis is a masterpiece Bizen-ware teacup set crafted by the Konishi Toko Kiln, a kiln closely connected to the Konishi family lineage and the Bizen master Konishi Tōzō.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"472\" data-start=\"169\"\u003eEach cup is fired using the traditional hidasuki technique, where rice straw is wrapped around the clay during firing. As the kiln reaches extreme temperatures, the straw leaves behind vivid, iron-rich flame markings—natural, unrepeatable, and deeply tied to Bizen’s centuries-old wood-firing tradition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"855\" data-start=\"474\"\u003eCarved into select cups are dragon motifs, emerging organically from the clay surface. In Japanese culture, dragons symbolize strength, protection, and auspicious energy, often associated with water and clouds—an especially fitting motif for tea vessels. The carvings are subtle and tactile rather than decorative, meant to be discovered through handling rather than display alone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1076\" data-start=\"857\"\u003eThe clay is left unglazed, as is customary in true Bizen ware. Over time, these cups will slowly develop character through use, absorbing tea oils and deepening in tone—a living surface that rewards long-term ownership.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1202\" data-start=\"1078\"\u003eThis set comes complete with its original wooden storage box, making it suitable for daily tea practitioners and collectors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1215\" data-start=\"1204\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1215\" data-start=\"1204\"\u003eDetails\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-is-only-node=\"\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-end=\"1460\" data-start=\"1217\"\u003eCapacity: 60 ml each\u003cbr data-end=\"1235\" data-start=\"1232\"\u003eOrigin: Bizen, Japan\u003cbr data-end=\"1258\" data-start=\"1255\"\u003eKiln: Konishi Toko Kiln\u003cbr data-end=\"1284\" data-start=\"1281\"\u003eTechnique: Hidasuki wood-firing\u003cbr data-end=\"1318\" data-start=\"1315\"\u003eMaterial: Unglazed Bizen clay\u003cbr data-end=\"1350\" data-start=\"1347\"\u003eDecoration: Hand-carved dragon motifs\u003cbr data-end=\"1390\" data-start=\"1387\"\u003eQuantity: 5-pc teacup set\u003cbr data-end=\"1424\" data-start=\"1421\"\u003eIncludes: Original signed wooden box with documents\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Artisanal Japan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44560804315251,"sku":null,"price":194.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0701\/2286\/4755\/files\/HidasukiBizenWareYunomi5-pcTeacupSet_DragonCarvedMotif-KonishiTokoKiln_54934317-7022-462f-939f-b46e4aeff45f.png?v=1776147921"},{"product_id":"ouhin-teapot-with-double-dragon-lid-bizen-ware-teapot-konishi-toko-220ml","title":"Houhin Teapot with Double Dragon Lid, Bizen-Yaki - Konishi Toko - 220ml","description":"\u003cp data-end=\"311\" data-start=\"0\"\u003eThis exceptional Japanese houhin teapot was produced by the Konishi Toko kiln, a family kiln associated with the lineage of Konishi Tozo in Bizen, Japan. It represents the kiln’s highest level of expressive work, combining sculptural ambition with the raw, fire-driven character that defines serious Bizen ware.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"753\" data-start=\"313\"\u003eThe form is powerful and grounded, with a wide, low body and a confident, asymmetrical profile. The lid is crowned with an intricately sculpted dragon motif, rendered with depth and movement with its coiled body, textured scales, and expressive heads emerging organically from the clay. Rather than appearing ornamental, the dragon feels integrated into the structure of the vessel itself, as if shaped by the same forces that formed the teapot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1128\" data-start=\"755\"\u003eThe surface displays rich natural firing effects characteristic of Bizen: layered earth tones, ash deposits, and darkened areas formed entirely through kiln atmosphere and placement. No glaze is used. The color and texture are the result of prolonged firing and interaction with flame, ash, and clay, giving the piece a quiet complexity that reveals more with time and use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1390\" data-start=\"1130\"\u003eDespite its sculptural presence, the teapot remains functional, designed for thoughtful brewing and pouring. It stands comfortably at the intersection of utility and art, equally suited to daily tea practice or as a focal piece in a serious ceramic collection.\u003cstrong data-end=\"1432\" data-start=\"1392\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1897\" data-start=\"1886\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1897\" data-start=\"1886\"\u003eDetails\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-is-only-node=\"\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-end=\"2113\" data-start=\"1899\"\u003eCapacity: 220 ml\u003cbr data-end=\"1918\" data-start=\"1915\"\u003eOrigin: Bizen, Japan\u003cbr data-end=\"1941\" data-start=\"1938\"\u003eKiln: Konishi Toko (Konishi Tozo family kiln)\u003cbr data-end=\"1989\" data-start=\"1986\"\u003eMaterials: Bizen clay\u003cbr data-end=\"2014\" data-start=\"2011\"\u003eTechnique: Unglazed, yakishime (natural ash and flame effects from wood firing)\u003cbr data-end=\"2084\" data-start=\"2081\"\u003eDesign: Sculptural dragon lid\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Artisanal Japan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44702526079091,"sku":null,"price":750.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0701\/2286\/4755\/files\/HouhinTeapotwithDoubleDragonLid_BizenWareTeapot-KonishiToko-220ml_3.png?v=1775520456"},{"product_id":"houhin-teapot-set-with-yuzamashi-and-6-pc-yunomi-teacups-bizen-ware-konishi-toko","title":"Houhin Teapot Set with Yuzamashi and 6-Pc Yunomi Teacups - Bizen-Yaki - Konishi Toko","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"261\"\u003eThis is an exceptional Bizen-yaki houhin tea set produced by the Konishi Tōko Kiln, a respected kiln lineage closely connected to the master Konishi Tozo in Bizen, Japan. The set embodies the depth, symbolism, and quiet authority that define serious Bizen ware.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"263\" data-end=\"702\"\u003eAt its center is a houhin teapot crowned with a sculptural dragon lid. The dragon emerges organically from the clay, its expression alert, its form integrated into the lid rather than applied as decoration. Flowing wave motifs surround the dragon and continue across the body of the houhin and accompanying vessels, evoking movement, protection, and vitality, classical symbols in Japanese art rendered here through raw clay, ash, and fire.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"704\" data-end=\"1052\"\u003eThe surfaces display rich natural yakishime firing effects, with layered tones of charcoal gray, ash white, and warm earth hues. These variations are the result of long, high-temperature wood firing, where ash settles naturally and flame interacts unpredictably with the clay. No two pieces are identical, and each surface rewards close inspection.\u003cstrong data-start=\"1054\" data-end=\"1070\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1242\" data-end=\"1538\"\u003eBizen ware is fired without glaze, relying entirely on clay, ash, and flame, making each piece an unrepeatable record of its firing. Complete houhin sets of this scale and sculptural complexity, particularly those featuring a fully realized dragon motif and matching yuzamashi, are highly prized.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1540\" data-end=\"1684\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003eThis is both a functional tea set and a collectible work of ceramic art, suitable for serious tea practice, display, and long-term appreciation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1054\" data-end=\"1070\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1054\" data-end=\"1070\"\u003eSet Includes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1072\" data-end=\"1240\"\u003eOne Bizen-yaki houhin teapot with integrated ceramic filter\u003cbr data-start=\"1131\" data-end=\"1134\"\u003eOne matching yuzamashi (water-cooling vessel)\u003cbr data-start=\"1179\" data-end=\"1182\"\u003eSix matching yunomi teacups\u003cbr data-start=\"1209\" data-end=\"1212\"\u003eOriginal signed wooden box\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1886\" data-end=\"1897\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1886\" data-end=\"1897\"\u003eDetails\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1899\" data-end=\"2113\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003eCapacity: 220 ml (teapot), 60 ml (teacups)\u003cbr data-start=\"1915\" data-end=\"1918\"\u003eOrigin: Bizen, Japan\u003cbr data-start=\"1938\" data-end=\"1941\"\u003eKiln: Konishi Toko (Konishi Tozo family kiln)\u003cbr data-start=\"1986\" data-end=\"1989\"\u003eMaterials: Bizen clay\u003cbr data-start=\"2011\" data-end=\"2014\"\u003eTechnique: Unglazed, natural ash and flame effects from wood firing\u003cbr data-start=\"2081\" data-end=\"2084\"\u003eDesign: Sculptural dragon lid\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Artisanal Japan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44702656856179,"sku":null,"price":860.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0701\/2286\/4755\/files\/HouhinTeapotSetwithYuzamashiand6-PcYunomiTeacups-BizenWare-KonishiToko_4_21f2e318-50b3-4a33-b3cb-c076f22511c1.png?v=1777403806"},{"product_id":"yunomi-tea-cup-set-bizen-ware-hand-carved-stoneware-60ml","title":"Yunomi Teacup Set, Bizen-Yaki Hand Carved Stoneware, Pair - Konishi Toko - 60ml","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"318\"\u003eThis pair of Bizen-ware yunomi teacups was crafted at the Konishi Toko Kiln, a family kiln closely associated with the Konishi Tozo lineage and operating within the Bizen tradition. Fired using traditional wood-kiln methods, these cups embody the quiet strength and natural beauty for which Bizen ceramics are revered.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"320\" data-end=\"794\"\u003eThe surface features hand-carved dragon motifs, emerging organically from the clay rather than sitting on top of it. The dragons are surrounded by flowing, cloud-like forms, suggesting movement and energy while remaining understated and tactile. During firing, ash, flame, and heat interact with the carved surface to produce natural variations in tone with deep charcoal, warm brown, and subtle ash highlights making each cup visually distinct while clearly belonging as a pair.\u003cimg\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"796\" data-end=\"1140\"\u003eAs is characteristic of Bizen ware, these yunomi are unglazed, relying instead on the firing process to create depth and texture. The clay body feels dense and grounding in the hand, with a slightly rough exterior that contrasts with the smoother interior. Over time and use, the surface will continue to develop character, especially with tea.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1142\" data-end=\"1418\"\u003eThis is a matched pair, ideal for shared tea sessions or as a refined addition to a serious teaware collection. Pieces featuring figurative carving—particularly dragons—are less common in Bizen ware and are typically reserved for special works rather than everyday production.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1420\" data-end=\"1431\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1420\" data-end=\"1431\"\u003eDetails\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1433\" data-end=\"1639\"\u003eSize: 60 ml\u003cbr data-start=\"1444\" data-end=\"1447\"\u003eOrigin: Okayama Prefecture, Japan\u003cbr data-start=\"1480\" data-end=\"1483\"\u003eKiln: Konishi Toko Kiln\u003cbr data-start=\"1506\" data-end=\"1509\"\u003eCraft: Bizen-yaki\u003cbr data-start=\"1526\" data-end=\"1529\"\u003eForm: Yunomi teacups (pair)\u003cbr data-start=\"1556\" data-end=\"1559\"\u003eFinish: Unglazed, wood-fired\u003cbr data-start=\"1587\" data-end=\"1590\"\u003eDecoration: Hand-carved dragon and cloud motifs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1641\" data-end=\"1837\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Artisanal Japan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44704929644659,"sku":null,"price":110.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0701\/2286\/4755\/files\/JapaneseYunomiTeaCupSetBizenWareHandCarvedStonewareTeacups60ml_4.png?v=1776147795"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0701\/2286\/4755\/collections\/HouhinTeapotSetwithYuzamashiand6-PcYunomiTeacups-BizenWare-KonishiToko_2.png?v=1776546785","url":"https:\/\/artisanaljapan.com\/collections\/konishi-toko.oembed","provider":"Artisanal Japan","version":"1.0","type":"link"}