The image of graceful weeping sakura, cherry blossoms, of Gion, Kyoto is depicted on these chopstick rests from Tosen Kiln. Weeping cherry blossoms are one of the representative flowers of Kyoto, and express Kyoto's unique atmosphere. The pink and pale green of the cherry blossoms beautifully decorate the yellowish cream white color of the Kiyomizu ware base. 

Founded in 1868 as a Kiyomizu ware wholesaler in Kyoto, Tosen Kiln uses its own blend of soil and glaze, preserving the methods and quality of the works of Nonomura Ninsei, the renowned potter who is said to have established the art of Kyo ware in the 17th century.

The paintwork is done by craftpersons with in-depth knowledge of Japanese-style painting. The creativity and skillful techniques of these craftspersons are astoundingly displayed through the exquisite pieces made at Tosen Kiln. The cherry blossoms are hand-painted one by one on the unglazed surface of each chopstick rest. Painting delicate colored designs on an unglazed base requires a tremendous amount of skill as the base material is highly absorbent. After each chopstick rest is painted, a "nami-yu" glaze is applied and gives the chopstick rests a clear and shiny coat over the detailed drawings. 

Take your tabletop decor to the next level with these stunning chopstick rests decorated with the delicate designs of cherry blossoms in Kyoto. Enjoy matching these chopstick rests with other items from Tosen Kiln's Sakura series such as their Katakuchi sake carafe and sake cups. Place them on a table or a shelf as decorative items to add hints of soft pink reminiscent of spring in Kyoto. 

This set of five pieces, all contained in an attractive paulownia box also decorated with hand-painted beautiful cherry blossoms, makes for the perfect present. On the backside of the lid, the Japanese characters for "chopstick rest" is written in the middle. On the left is the name of Tosen Kiln. It is sure to make any special gift-giving occasion even more memorable. 

PRODUCT DETAIL

• Quantity: 5pcs
• Dimension: 4cm(1.6in) x 4cm(1.6in) x 1.3cm(0.5in)
• Wooden Box: 25.7cm(10.1in) x 5.8(2.3in) x 3.3cm (1.3in)
• Material: Stoneware 
• Origin: Made in Japan - Kiyomizu Ware
• Brand: Tosen kiln