Hozan Kiln Shell-Shaped Shishi-mai and Shimenawa Kyo Ware Chopstick Rest Set
This chopstick rest set, designed in the shape of a shell, features the traditional lion head mask used for shishi-mai or lion dance, and shimenawa, the sacred rice-straw ropes. These items offer stability for your chopsticks and are perfect for enhancing your New Year’s dining table.
Shishi-mai, traditionally performed to ward off demons and epidemics, still carries the significance of dispelling misfortune. It is often performed on auspicious occasions like New Year and festivals, believed to bring good luck. In this spirit of protection and blessing, one can find solace in the gentle face of the lion, a symbol central to the dance.
Shimenawa is used to mark sacred spaces believed to be where deities descend. Decorating it with white paper strips, tangerines, and pine leaves for the New Year symbolizes welcoming Toshigami, the deity of vitality, and embodies prayers for abundance of food.
Established in 1951, Hozan Kiln is run by Kato Yoshitsugu, the third generation owner of the kiln. They specialize in chopstick rests delicately decorated with seasonal motifs. While respecting the traditions of Kyo ware and Kiyomizu ware, the kiln continues to produce pieces that meet the needs of customers and can be cherished for many years.
PRODUCT DETAIL
- Quantity: 2 pcs
- Dimension: 4 cm (1.5 in) x 5 cm (2 in) x H 1.5cm (0.6 in)
- Material: Stoneware
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Origin: Made in Japan - Kyo ware
- Brand: Hozan Kiln
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ABOUT KYOTO HOZAN KILN
The history of Hozan Kiln dates back to 1951, when it was established as Kato Yukichi Seisakusho (Kato Yukichi Factory), but it changed its kiln name to Hozan Kiln and the current owner, Kato Yoshitsugu, is the third generation. The main focus is on painting with underglaze enameling technique, Gosu, and is particularly good at net painting tableware and delicately painted chopstick rests decorated with seasonal motifs.
The kiln continues to produce pottery that meets the needs of customers and can be used for a long time, while respecting the traditions of Kyo ware and Kiyomizu ware.
ABOUT Kyo Ware and Kiyomizu Ware
"Emblematic Pottery Flourishes in the Old Capital of Japan"
Kyo ware and Kiyomizu ware is one of Kyoto's representative crafts. Its a traditional craft designated by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, named Kyo-yaki or Kiyomizu-yaki in Japanese.
There is no specific style, and all pottery techniques from various regions of Japan are used. Another characteristic of Kyo ware is that all processes, such as pottery wheel turning and painting, are done by hand. With a history that has developed along with traditional culture, Kyo ware is characterized by delicate painting and excellent modeling skills, resulting in ceramics of great elegance and highly pictorial qualities. Kyo ware and Kiyomizu ware were designated as traditional crafts by the Japanese government in 1977 and are very popular for its artistic quality.
