Chasoku tea scoop by Kota Yamaguchi

A Japanese ceramic tea scoop by Kota Yamaguchi, the chasoku is used to measure tea leaves, appreciate their shape and quantity, and then slide them into the teapot using a small spatula. Shaped like a long, slightly curved leaf, this piece combines the simplicity of this traditional utensil with one of the characteristic aspects of the ceramicist's work: an exploration of material, the color of the clay, and surface transformations.

The ceramicist
Born in 1982 in Ōbu, Aichi Prefecture, Kota Yamaguchi turned to ceramics after a first career in business. In 2016, he joined the specialized program at the Seto Ceramics School, graduating in 2018, and then continued his training at the Tokoname Ceramic Research Center until 2020, when he became independent. Based in Tokoname, he creates both functional objects and sculptural pieces, paying particular attention to surfaces, textures, and color transformations during firing.

Technique and finish
Kota Yamaguchi develops part of his work around dark clays and glazes, seeking variations rather than perfectly uniform colors. He pays close attention to the color of the clay beneath the glaze and the effects produced by their layering. He works notably with a vitreous transparent glaze, which protects the surface while revealing the nuances and texture of the underlying material, as well as with black glazes whose variations can bring out bluish or brownish tones. On this chasoku, the intentionally irregular surface thus reveals a range of grey-black and brown, with a warmer, almost copper-like area in the center. The pronounced relief catches the light differently depending on the orientation of the piece and reinforces its mineral character.

Place of manufacture
Japan (Tokoname, Aichi Prefecture)

Dimensions
Length 13 cm - Width 4.5 cm - Height 2 cm

Weight
68 g

Materials
Ceramic

Period
Contemporary

Care instructions
After use, drain any water and leave to air dry. Avoid thermal shock and abrasive products. Wipe with a soft cloth. Do not use in dishwasher, oven, or microwave.

As each piece is created by hand, slight variations in shape, color, or texture may occur compared to the photos, attesting to the unique character of this artisanal work.