Ode to the Kyusu
So I finally succumbed to peer pressure and decided to get a japanese teapot
Back handle pot from Tsuchihira Eiichi via Artistic Nippon, it's listed at 140ml, probably closer to 110 usable, great for solo drinking
Was in need of a pot capable of brewing fukamushi, previously I was using one of those cheap glass pots with 2 spiral strainers intertwined so definitely an upgrade
Pics arent the best because the outer glaze is very shiny (and my phone isnt exactly a camera)

Back handle pot from Tsuchihira Eiichi via Artistic Nippon, it's listed at 140ml, probably closer to 110 usable, great for solo drinking
Was in need of a pot capable of brewing fukamushi, previously I was using one of those cheap glass pots with 2 spiral strainers intertwined so definitely an upgrade

Pics arent the best because the outer glaze is very shiny (and my phone isnt exactly a camera)
Striking finish on that lovely pot, must be pleasant to reflect on it as you wait for the infusions to complete
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Has the shudei clay changed at all after so much use? Looks like new.
- Chip
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Our 1st day of 12 kyusu (separate topic) features my first Yamada Sou kyusu. It is quite unique in several ways for YS including the bulbous handle and smooth kudai.
I have brewed perhaps 1000s of sessions with it.
I have brewed perhaps 1000s of sessions with it.
- Chip
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Oops, had to delete my original post.
The exterior has darkened maybe 1 shade while the lid has not (I brew with lid off).
The interior patina is relatively ... moderate with more around the rim, in the spout, and direct wall screen.
Overall, it looks really nice for its age and use. Keep in mind, it has only ever been used for "steamed" sencha.
Wondering what lead you to steep with the lid off, a sweeter more mellow brew?
- Chip
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It is a common practice with gyokuro which one day led me to try with sencha and have done it ever since.
I like to observe what is going on in the kyusu ... it also allows water to cool slightly as a steep brews.
Is one way better than the other? Not likely ... just my preference.
But the lid is always present on the tea tray. It would feel odd to me if it was not there. And if the lid somehow got broken, the kyusu would "feel incomplete" to me. It would sadden me.

beautiful kyusu, @Chip. you're right about that bulbous handle, i can't recall seeing another like it. 
