On a hot, sweltering afternoon in August, I visited the home of sculptor Mr. Aono in Ome City, Tokyo. I chatted with him and his wife and their dog, Hana, in front of Mr. Aono's artwork, and thanks to the family's kind personalities, I had a very pleasant time.

Now, Mr. Aono is an iron sculptor known for his monumental large-scale works, such as those found at the Utsukushigahara Kogen Museum (Nagano Prefecture), but recently he has broadened the scope of his work and is also venturing into iron tea ceremony utensils. In particular, I think the furo (tea brazier) is appealing for its modern design that incorporates motifs from Mr. Aono's previous sculptures.

This will be our first solo exhibition, and instead of a "Tea Ceramic" exhibition, we've titled it a "Tea Iron" exhibition, focusing on tea ceremony utensils made of iron (braziers, kettles, flower vases, lid rests), as well as our signature objects and lighting fixtures.

Whether you are a tea lover or someone who has seen Aono's previous works, we would be grateful for your guidance. Matcha tea will also be available during the exhibition. Please come and enjoy the exhibition.

Shop owner Takashi Yasuda