Golden Sasagiri Nakatsugi Matcha Container

This matcha container is a type known as nakatsugi, distinguished by its cylindrical form and the joint at the midsection of the body. It is crafted from mizume (Japanese cherry birch), a fine natural wood, and because the wooden base is entirely handmade, several years are required to complete each piece. The golden areas of the design are created using tin, whose subtle shimmer lends a quiet brilliance to the surface.

The motif here is the sasagiri (bamboo and paulownia crest), an auspicious pattern revered since ancient times. In Chinese mythology, paulownia trees were believed to be the dwelling place of the phoenix, a sacred bird said to perch only in their branches and to feed solely on bamboo fruit. 

On the jet-black lacquer ground, bamboo leaves and paulownia shimmer in gold, the stark contrast of black and gold intensifying the sense of beauty. Outlined leaves alternate with fully gilded ones, creating rhythm and depth within the design.

The caddy fits naturally in the hand, its surface smooth and light to the touch. The lid closes with effortless precision, blending seamlessly into the body. While steeped in tradition, it harmonizes with the aesthetics of the modern tea ceremony, making it a piece of timeless refinement.

Nishimoto

Nishimoto, deeply rooted in the tradition of Yamanaka lacquerware, specializes in the manufacture and sale of lacquerware, tea ceremony utensils, and related accessories. Holding a significant market share in tea ceremony items, particularly matcha bowls, Nishimoto is committed to sharing the taste and atmosphere of matcha in a way that is easy to enjoy, a sentiment reflected in every piece they create.

Yamanaka Lacquerware

Yamanaka lacquerware, also known as Yamanaka Shikki, is a kind of lacquerware produced in the Yamanaka Onsen district of Kaga, Ishikawa Prefecture. This lacquerware is unique in that it blends wood grain's natural elegance with the elegant maki-e technique of sprinkling gold, silver, or other colored powder onto a lacquer painting.

With its beautiful wood texture, delicate and robust Yamanaka lacquerware incorporates a modern sense of design while inheriting a tradition that has lasted for 400 years.