Teapot by Atsushi Hatanaka 畑中篤

This teapot by Atsushi Hatanaka is shaped from raw Nara‑clay and finished with a natural ash glaze (灰釉, hai‑yū), creating a vessel that feels timeless and earthy. The glaze bears subtle variations in tone and texture, a result of the ash, clay, and kiln interacting — giving each teapot a unique, organic surface that reveals the material’s origin and the hand of the maker.

About the Artist

Atsushi Hatanaka is a Japanese ceramic artist based in Nara, Japan, celebrated for his handmade vessels that emphasize the natural qualities of clay and ash glaze. He works primarily with local black and white clays, often finished with natural ash glazes (灰釉, hai-yū) that create subtle, flowing variations across each piece. Hatanaka’s work embraces the unpredictability of firing, allowing slight irregularities and textures to emerge, reflecting his belief that clay, fire, and glaze should express their own natural voice.

Inspired by traditional East-Asian pottery, his creations balance functionality and quiet elegance, transforming everyday objects — teapots, plates, bowls, and cups — into meditative, soulful works of art. Each piece carries the tactile signature of his hand, celebrating earth-born materials, natural textures, and understated beauty.