{"title":"Shimizu Suigetsu II","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eSuigetsu II, \u003cb\u003eShimizu Gen\u003c\/b\u003e (1901–1990), was a Banko-yaki ceramic artisan from Yokkaichi, Mie Prefecture, and the second generation to bear the Suigetsu name. He stands as a central figure in one of Banko-yaki’s most important teapot-making lineages.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eHis work is closely associated with traditional \u003cb\u003eshidei\u003c\/b\u003e Banko teaware and with the strength, restraint, and material depth that define Yokkaichi purple-clay ceramics. While the first generation of the kiln was known for wooden-mold Banko, Suigetsu II helped carry the lineage forward through wheel-thrown teapot making, deepening the studio’s connection to the handmade kyusu tradition. His teapots often feature carved decoration depicting elements of nature as well as poetic or scriptural inscriptions, adding a more expressive and literary dimension to his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eOver the course of his career, he received major recognition for his contribution to Banko ware. He won the \u003cb\u003eMinister of International Trade and Industry Award\u003c\/b\u003e at the Banko Teapot Competition in 1965, received the \u003cb\u003eMie Prefecture Citizens’ Merit Award\u003c\/b\u003e in 1977, and was later recognized by Yokkaichi for his cultural contribution.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"kyusu-banko-yaki-antique-teapot-set-shimizu-suigetsu-ii-300ml","title":"Vintage Banko-Yaki Kyusu Teapot Set -  Suigetsu II - 300ml","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis very rare and complete antique Banko-yaki tea set was crafted by Shimizu Suigetsu II (1901–1990), the father of the current head of the Suigetsu kiln and a significant figure in 20th-century Banko pottery working in Yokkaichi, Mie Prefecture, Japan. Works by Suigetsu II are rare, particularly complete tea sets such preserved excellent condition with their original wooden box. This set is over 50 years old.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuigetsu II was formally recognized by Yokkaichi City as an Intangible Cultural Property, an honor reserved for craftsmen whose work is considered culturally and historically important to the region. This designation reflects not only technical mastery, but also his role in preserving and advancing the Banko-yaki tradition during a formative period in its modern history.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDistinctive Craftsmanship\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis set exemplifies the core philosophy of Banko-yaki: teaware created as functional tools, refined through disciplined craftsmanship and long practice. The surfaces are carved directly into the clay and depict natural motifs, most clearly pine branches and pine leaves, worked with restraint and precision. Fine, needle-like lines wrap gently around the vessels, adding depth and rhythm without overpowering the form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carving is subtle and integrated, allowing the clay and firing to remain the primary visual elements. Natural tonal variation emerges across the surface, giving the set a quiet, composed presence that reveals itself gradually through use and close inspection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe kyusu is rounded and well balanced, with a carefully proportioned spout and side handle designed for smooth, controlled pouring. The yunomi cups and yuzamashi are matched in scale and proportion, forming a cohesive ensemble suited for both daily tea practice and long-term appreciation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBanko-yaki ceramics by artists designated as Intangible Cultural Properties are particularly valued by collectors, as they represent not only individual craftsmanship but also officially recognized cultural heritage. Complete tea service sets from this period are increasingly difficult to find, especially with the original wooden box intact.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe set includes:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1x Kyusu teapot (approx. 300 ml)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5x yunomi cups (approx. 80 ml each)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1x Yuzamashi (water-cooling bowl)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCondition:  Excellent\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrigin: Yokkaichi, Mie Prefecture, Japan\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eArtist: Suigetsu II (Shimizu Gen)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCraft: Banko-yaki\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWare: Tea set — kyusu teapot, five yunomi cups, and yuzamashi\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCapacity: Teapot approx. 300 ml; cups approx. 80 ml each\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIncludes: Original wooden box\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Artisanal Japan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44783490531443,"sku":null,"price":520.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0701\/2286\/4755\/files\/JapaneseKyusuTeaSet_ShimizuSuigetsuII_AntiqueBanko-YakiTeapotset300ml.png?v=1776215417"}],"url":"https:\/\/artisanaljapan.com\/collections\/masaki-tachi-copy.oembed","provider":"Artisanal Japan","version":"1.0","type":"link"}