Ko-Seto Yari-no-Saya Utsushi Cha-ire by Ryuki Kiln – Japanese Koicha Tea Caddy

Ko-Seto Yari-no-Saya Utsushi Cha-ire by Ryuki Kiln

A refined Ko-Seto (古瀬戸) style Cha-ire (茶入) by Ryuki Kiln (龍喜窯), created as a Yari-no-Saya Utsushi (鎗の鞘写) based on a classical tea caddy form admired in the tradition of Chanoyu.

Unlike a natsume, which is generally used to hold matcha for usucha (thin tea), a cha-ire is traditionally associated with the preparation of koicha (thick tea) and holds an especially important place among the utensils selected for a formal tea gathering.

Yari-no-Saya – A Classical Cha-ire Form

Yari-no-Saya (鎗の鞘) literally means “spear sheath” and refers to a recognized classical form and aesthetic in Japanese cha-ire.

This piece is an utsushi (写)—a carefully made interpretation of a historical model. The tradition of utsushi is an important part of Chanoyu, allowing celebrated forms and aesthetics of earlier tea utensils to be studied, appreciated, and carried forward by later generations of potters.

The elongated, restrained form of the Yari-no-Saya gives the cha-ire a dignified presence, while the Ko-Seto-style glaze brings warmth, depth, and subtle variation to the ceramic surface.

Ko-Seto & the Tea Tradition

Ko-Seto (古瀬戸) refers to the early glazed ceramics associated with Seto in present-day Aichi Prefecture, one of Japan’s most historically important ceramic-producing regions.

Seto wares played an important role in the development of Japanese tea ceramics, and Ko-Seto-style cha-ire are particularly appreciated for their rich iron-toned glazes, natural variation, and quiet character.

Rather than relying on painted decoration, the beauty of this cha-ire comes from its form, glaze, firing, and subtle changes across the ceramic surface—qualities that reveal themselves gradually when the piece is handled and viewed closely.

Created by Ryuki Kiln, this Yari-no-Saya Utsushi brings together a classical cha-ire form and the earthy character of the Ko-Seto tradition.

A distinguished choice for koicha, chakai, and more formal Chanoyu settings, as well as for collectors interested in classical Japanese tea ceramics and utsushi traditions.

Details

• Kiln: Ryuki Kiln (龍喜窯)

• Type: Cha-ire (茶入)

• Style: Ko-Seto (古瀬戸)

• Form: Yari-no-Saya (鎗の鞘)

• Type of Work: Utsushi (写)

• Use: Koicha / Thick Tea

• Japanese Tea Ceremony Utensil

• Made in Japan

About Ryuki Kiln

Ryuki Kiln is a Japanese pottery studio led by ceramic artists Satoshi Imajo and Miho Imajo. In 1994, Satoshi Imajo was granted the kiln name "Ryuki Kiln" by Rev. Kanshu Tsutsui of Ryōshōin Temple at Tōdai-ji in Nara. After establishing the kiln in Nara, the studio relocated to Sagano, Kyoto, where the artists continue to create their works today. Ryuki Kiln is best known for crafting traditional Japanese tea ceremony utensils, including chaire (tea caddies) inspired by celebrated historical masterpieces and finely handcrafted matcha bowls. Each piece reflects the timeless aesthetics, craftsmanship, and spirit of the Japanese tea ceremony.

Details

• Material: Ceramic 
• Shifuku: 100% Silk
• Crafted by Satoshi Imajo of Ryuki Kiln
• Box: Paulownia wood box
• Lid: Synthetic resin lid
• Because each tea caddy is handmade, the glaze, color, and surface pattern (known as the keshiki, or "landscape") will vary slightly, making every piece unique.
• Colors may appear slightly different depending on your monitor or device settings.