Japanese teapots, also known as Kyusu, are unique and interesting pieces that make your teatime more fulfilling while providing a touch of class in your dining hall.
They have a rich history and are embedded in oriental cultures since ancient times. This makes Japanese teapots ideal gifts to people who are endeared to you.
Relaxation and wellness almost come synonymous with tea drinking whether you are having your favorite Genmaicha tea or matcha tea, tea experts attest to the sense of equilibrium that drinking tea gives out.
It can give a jolt of alertness to a drowsy person yet provide a calmness to a drinker who came from a hard day’s work.
As such, tea aficionados consider the process of teatime as a work of art and their Japanese teapot as the centerpiece of their canvas.
What makes Japanese teapots unique?
Japanese teapots are a wondrous combination of artistic design and functionality. It may be easily perceived as a mundane piece that is made without much effort.
However, history will tell you otherwise. The handmade lids of these teapots attest to their uniqueness. You won’t be able to buy one in case you break it.
Throughout time, Kyusu design has branched out into three main classifications. They are grouped according to the placement of their handle.
Yokode Kyusu
The side-handled design provides the Yokode Kyusu with an unmistakable look and maximized functionality. The handle is placed perpendicular to its spout. This frees up the thumb of the user to hold the cover and prevent it from falling.
It makes it easier to completely dispense the teapot’s content.
The detail in making this Japanese teapot is extremely accurate. The handle’s size increases outwardly before petering out into an oval at the end. This makes a great grip and minimizes the conduction of heat.
Meanwhile, the body bulks up at the lower portion with ample room for brewing at the top.
Uwade Kyusu
The handle of this teapot is located at the top. Its design stems from the idea of keeping its users safe from getting burned. Thus, the handle for the Uwade Kyusu is usually made from a different material. This prevents the heat from reaching the hand of the user.
Additionally, it provides a unique design. Teapot makers use creative mixes of colors for the handle and body of the teapot. These are excellent for people who prefer their tea brewed in higher temperatures.
Ushirode Kyusu
This Japanese teapot takes inspiration from the classic Chinese teapots. Its handle is located directly at the back of the spout. The design is also similar to the Western teapots that are widespread in stores.
Different materials used in making Kyusus
Aside from the design, Kyusus are also classified by the material they are made from. Factors such as geography, the abundance of material, and technology paved the way for teapots branching out into different compositions.
Clay teapots are extremely popular for drinkers who love green tea. The mineral-rich composition of clay reacts to the natural brewing process. This infuses the tea with a hint of flavor and aroma that makes each clay teapot unique from the other.
You will know that it’s not only the design referred to the next time you hear a tea drinker say, “This is my favorite teapot.”
Porcelain teapots do not have flavor-emitting properties due to their more compact composition. However, this does not make them less of a teapot.
These are easier to clean and are the preferred type for tea masters who would like to taste the pure blend of a specific tea. Its smooth and shiny texture provides a great accent to anyone’s kitchen as well.
Glass teapots are also a popular type of Kyusu. These are often used for brewing tea at lower temperatures.
Glass Kyusus is the best choice when drinking brewed iced tea. They also come in various designs and colors.
What makes it an ideal gift?
The combination of functional and elaborate design makes Japanese teapots a great gift for endeared people. They immediately provide a classic accent to the household of its bearer.
Also, the various functions and uniqueness of each piece make it one of a kind and stand out. It would not be surprising that you would be remembered during teatime should you choose to gift someone special with a Kyusu.