I am a Hanging Sculpture Vase. My silver glaze will set your heart ablaze.

Curator's Notes

Masanobu Ando's background in contemporary art and his practice of ikebana meet in the creation of this hanging wall vase. The typical vase has symmetric curves that taper up to a rounded mouth. Ando-san turns this notion on its head with a simple, block-like construction. Its hand-painted silver glaze and unrefined texture remind me of a Brutalist sculpture, with a sense of strength that radiates from its acceptance of imperfection. The stark "L"-shape is a dynamic focal point, its presence softened with the addition of flowers, but raw and striking on its own.

Hanging Sculpture Vase was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Masanobu Ando

Designer: Masanobu Ando

Specifications

Dimensions:

1.9" (w) x 7.3" (l) x 19" (h) or 48 mm (w) x 185 mm (l) x 483 mm (h)

Weight: 3.3 lb or  1.5 kg

Materials: Ceramic, Silver Overglaze

Details

One-of-a-kind functional sculpture handmade by Masanobu Ando in Tajimi, Japan

Built from slabs of clay with Japanese "tatara" technique
Can be hung on the wall on a hook or nail or laid flat as a sculpture
Flowers and water are contained through a small opening carved out in the piece

Silver overglaze will develop a natural patina over time

Hand wash only with mild soap and soft sponge

Dry with soft cloth after washing

Do not place in dishwasher

Nalata Nalata is founded on the belief that purchasing and learning about the product should go hand-in-hand. We believe in the transparency of design process and strive to showcase the people and stories behind our products. 

Nalata Nalata

Hanging Sculpture Vase (out Of Stock)

Title

Vases

I am Ryo Serving Cutlery. It’s your serve. Give it all you’ve got.

Curator's Notes

Both elegant and artisanal, the Ryo cutlery series serves as a fantastic complement to everyday dining environments. Employing his expertise in metal arts, Yuichi Takemata finishes each stainless steel piece by hand in his Kanazawa based atelier. Takemata’s special method of hand hammering offers a rich texture to the surface that gives the collection an antique appearance.

Ryo Cutlery Series was curated Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Yuichi Takemata and Tasan Kinzoku co.
Designer: Osamu Saruyama

Specifications

Dimensions:
Serving Fork: 1.5”(w) x 7.9”(l) or 38mm(w) x 200mm(l)

Serving Spoon: 2.3”(w) x 7.8”(l) or 57mm(w) x 197mm(l)

Weight:

Serving Fork: 2.4 oz or 68 g

Serving Spoon: 3.0 oz or 85 g

Details

Made in Japan
Features decorative ridged handles
Constructed of heavy weight stainless steel
Each piece is hand finished by Yuichi Takemata
As the pieces are hand hammered, slight differences may occur in surface texture

Ryo Series - Serving Cutlery

Size

Home & Furniture

I am an Oval Lidded Basket. Don't even try to put all of your eggs in me.
Curator's Notes

This basket is woven from thin strips of durable bamboo into a delicate six-sided pattern called "mutsume" in Japanese. Made by Kohchosai Kosuga, known for their mastery in bamboo products, the craftsmanship behind this simple basket has been honed for generations. The company even sources a specific variety of bamboo for its strength and sustainability. This basket looks great filled with a few pieces of fruit or storing items. I love keeping it on the table as a basket for cloth napkins. If you place a square of parchment paper on the bottom, the basket becomes an elegant way to serve snacks or fruit.

Oval Lidded Basket was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Kohchosai Kosuga

Specifications

Dimensions: 6.1” (w) x 6.1” (l) x 2.6" (h) or 15.5cm (w) x 15.5cm (l) x 6.5cm (h)

Weight: 0.5 oz or 14 g

Materials: Bamboo

Details

Handmade in Kyoto, Japan
Used for storing fruit, vegetables or household objects
Each piece is made from raw bamboo and will feature unique variations
To clean, wipe with a dry cloth

Oval Lidded Basket

Baskets & Hampers

I am White Rice Bran Wax Candles. In these busy days, everyone is burning the candle at both ends. Not me though, I like going against the grain.

Curator's Notes

Andy Warhol may have talked about 15 minutes of fame, but we much prefer 15 minutes of flame to relax during the day. Handcrafted from natural and sustainable materials, the candles are made of rice bran wax that forms a harder body, burns longer and produces less smoke. Burning long enough for a short meditation session or casual tea service, each little candle serves as the perfect timer for a break in the middle of a busy day.

Rice Bran Wax Candles were curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Daiyo

Specifications

Dimensions:
Each Candle: 0.4" (w) x 0.4" (l) x 1.75" (h) or 10mm (w) x 10mm (l) x 44mm (h)
Box Size: 2.4" (w) x 4.4" (l) x 1" (h) or 62mm (w) x 112mm (l) x 25mm (h)

Weight:
Box: 2 oz or 51 g

Materials: Rice Wax, Rush Pant, Washi Paper, Silk Fiber

Details

Made in Japan
Burn time is 15 minutes per candle
10 candles per box
Reduced smoke
Unscented
Coated in white dye
Minimal drip wax
Rice bran wax forms hard candles that burn comparably longer than other types of wax
Made with 100% natural and sustainable materials
The underside of each candle has a hole so it can be used with a candle stand with a prick
If a burnt wick becomes long, it can be removed using tweezers or a Candle Wick Snuffer to prevent the candle from burning too quickly
Ideal to use with Small Nambu Tetsu Candle Stand

Rice Bran Wax Candles - White

Candles

I am a Rectangular Vase. I can hold beautiful flowers even in the most narrow of spaces.

Curator's Notes

This Rectangular Vase is a unique vessel for displaying and arranging small flowers. It's highly geometric form contrasts the organic shapes of flowers, while its textured surface resembles soil, bringing out the dark undertones of earthier flowers.

Rectangular Vase is curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Designer: Takayoshi Narita

Maker: Takayoshi Narita

Specifications

Dimensions:
1.2” (w) x 8.0” (l) x 4.1” (h) or 3.1cm (w) x 20.3cm (l) x 10.4cm (h)

Weight:
1.3 lb or 589.6 g

Materials:
Wrought-iron

Details

Handcrafted in Japan
Thin, durable walls
Interior is coated with beeswax to protect the water from rusting the vase
Water can be placed inside

Deep basin supports small to medium sized flowers

Rectangular Vase (out Of Stock)

I am a 4pc Pack of Sumac Candles. We burn consistent with little residue and reduced smoke for a bigger glow.

Curator's Notes

These candles are beautiful when they’re burned and even when they aren’t. The unique colour lies in the pale wax 100% obtained from sumac trees, also known as ‘haze trees’. Haze trees have been bred in Western Japan specifically for candle making as they burn consistently without excess wax dripping. They also have noticeably large flames due to the washi paper wicks, which is mesmerizing especially when used for meditation. I especially can't get over how amazing it is that each individual candle is hand formed one layer at a time.

Sumac Candles were curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Daiyo

Specifications

Dimensions:
Each Candle: 0.4" (w) x 0.4" (l) x 5.25" (h) or 11mm (w) x 11mm (l) x 133mm (h)

Weight:
Box: 2.1 oz or 60 g

Materials: Sumac Wax, Rush Plant, Washi Paper, Silk Fiber

Details

Made in Japan
Burn time is 105 minutes per candle
4 candles per box
Reduced smoke
Unscented
The underside of each candle has a hole so it can be used with a candle stand with a prick
If a burnt wick becomes long, it can be removed using tweezers or a Candle Wick Snuffer to prevent the candle from burning too quickly

Sumac Candles - 4-pc Pack

We are Light Grey Kishu Binchotan Towels. We all have magic inside us. Mine is in the form of binchotan.

Curator's Notes

These are some super luxurious towels! Texturally they’re really nice. A little thicker than typical Japanese towels but just as innovative in their textile technology. The thing that we noticed about these towels is that most of our customers who buy these don't use other towels because they like the texture. Personally we only use the body towel in our towel rotation because we prefer something a little thinner for face and hand towels. If you really want to splurge on towels, these are the ones to go with. Plus having binchotan charcoal odor eliminating towels is an added bonus!

Light Grey Kishu Binchotan Towels was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Uchino

Specifications

Dimensions:
Body: 28” (w) x 55” (l) or 70cm (w) x 140cm (l)
Hand: 20" (w) x 39" (l) or 50cm (w) x 100cm (l)
Face: 13.4" (w) x 15.7" (l) or 34cm (w) x 40cm(l)

Weight:
Body: 0.9 lbs or 0.4 kg
Hand: 0.6 lbs or 0.3 kg
Face: 0.2 lbs or 0.1 kg

Materials: 87% Cotton, 13% Rayon

Details

Made in Japan
Towel set includes the body, hand and face towel
Binchotan charcoal dyed fibers
Charcoal powder kneaded into fabric
Designed to eliminate odors as binchotan has natural odor eliminating and antimicrobial properties
Machine wash with mild detergent
Tumble dry low

Kishu Binchotan Towels - Light Grey

I am an 8pc Pack of Sumac Candles. We don’t need to follow the light. We are the light.

Curator's Notes

These candles are beautiful when they’re burned and even when they aren’t. The unique colour lies in the pale wax 100% obtained from sumac trees, also known as ‘haze trees’. Haze trees have been bred in Western Japan specifically for candle making as they burn consistently without excess wax dripping. They also have noticeably large flames due to the washi paper wicks, which is mesmerizing especially when used for meditation. I especially can't get over how amazing it is that each individual candle is hand formed one layer at a time.

Sumac Candles were curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Daiyo

Specifications

Dimensions:

Each Candle: 0.4" (w) x 0.4" (l) x 3.0" (h) or 11mm (w) x 11mm (l) x 75mm (h)

Weight:
Box: 2 oz or 55 g

Materials: Sumac Wax, Rush Plant, Washi Paper, Silk Fiber

Details

Made in Japan
Burn time is 20 minutes per candle
8 candles per box
Reduced smoke
Unscented
The underside of each candle has a hole so it can be used with a candle stand with a prick
If a burnt wick becomes long, it can be removed using tweezers or a Candle Wick Snuffer to prevent the candle from burning too quickly

Sumac Candles - 8-pc Pack

I am a Star Brass Trivet. You don’t always have to look up to see stars... Just look under your pots and pans.

Curator's Notes

These brass trivets are handy objects both in the kitchen and at the dinner table. They are functional while simultaneously exist as beautiful display objects while not in use. Through oxidization, its color changes over time to eventually produce a beautiful rich patina. We love how a product like this transforms with age and remains exquisite throughout all its stages.

Brass Star Trivet was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Futagami

Designer: Masanori Oji

Specifications

Dimensions: 5.5” (w) x 5.5” (l) x 0.75” (h) or 140mm (w) x 140mm (l) x 19mm (h)

Weight: 0.81lbs or 0.37kg

Materials: Brass

Details

Made in Japan
Clear silicone feet
Molding in Takaoka City
Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc
Brass products gradually change their color over the course of many years due to oxidization
A camel colored patina is expected to develop within 5 years
A russet brown color patina is expected to develop at approximately 30 years
Casted brass surface

Brass Trivet - Star

Trivets

I am a Lavender Sachet. Fall asleep with the scent of me, and be rest assured you’ll sleep like a baby!

Curator's Notes

Lavender is one of my favourite scents! The flower is naturally very fragrant and has wonderful healing and soothing properties. When used fresh, as an essential oil, or dried like in these sachets, lavender even has the power to improve sleep quality. Place the sachet under your pillow at night or hang it in the closet. The woven linen exterior pouch is so charming and the scent brings me right back to the rustic countryside and lavender fields in the South of France!

Lavender Sachet was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Yumiko Sekine

Designer: Fog Linen

Specifications

Dimensions: 3.5" (w) x 3.5" (l) x 0.5 (h) or 89mm (w) x 89mm (l) x 13mm (h)

Weight: 0.5 oz or 14 g

Materials: Linen, dried lavender

Details

100% Linen pouch
Linen sachet can be refilled with fresh dried lavender when the scent begins to fade

Features a hook that can be used for hanging the sachet

Interior pouch included contains dried lavender

Pattern and fabrics vary

Each order includes one lavender sachet chosen at random which may or may not be seen in our featured images. Please email if you have any specific requests

Lavender Sachet

I am a Cherry Blossom Wood Vase. My fluid form enfolds flowers fondly.

Curator's Notes

A vase full of fresh flowers is a wonderful way to brighten the day, but we love smaller sizes that look good with just a single bloom or sprig. They’re more practical for daily use, and much easier to arrange. It was a joy to work with Makoto Koizumi to take the best of what we love about bud vases and create something special. The series is created with a variety of rare Japanese indigenous wood types. This wooden vase is elegant yet playful, and leans subtly to one side with the beauty of imperfection. The waves of wood grain play with the curves of the vase’s body to add movement to a piece that is dynamic by nature, its appearance seeming to alter as its flowers are refreshed, changing week by week.

Cherry Blossom Wood Vase was created by Makoto Koizumi x Nalata Nalata

Designer/Maker

Designer: Makoto Koizumi

Specifications

Dimensions:
Small:

2.6 ” (w) x 2.6 ” (l) x 4 .0” (h) or 66 mm (w) x 66 mm (l) x 101 mm (h)
Large:

2. 75 ” (w) x 2. 75 ” (l) x 4. 9 ” (h) or 7 0mm (w) x 7 0mm (l) x 124 mm (h)

Weight:
Small: 2.7 oz or 76 gr
Large: 3.8 oz or 110 gr

Materials:
Cherry Blossom Wood, Glass

Details

Made in Japan

Carved from a solid block of wood with traditional turning techniques

Each piece is one-of-a-kind, with natural variations in wood grain

Dimensions will vary slightly due to the hand-made nature of the piece

Glass vial fits perfectly in the vase’s opening to protect the wooden body and contain water

Also available in different wood types

Wood Vase - Cherry Blossom

I am a Stainless Steel Toilet Paper Tray. Yeah, I’m looking at you! There are several rules in this house. Most importantly – if it runs out… replace it!

Curator's Notes

There are objects that you may not think of right off the bat that can make daily life infinitely better. The stainless steel toilet paper tray by Yamasaki is one of those things. The convenient stainless steel trays can be placed near the toilet bowl to refill empty toilet paper rolls at a glance, instead of having to uncomfortably locate a roll under the cabinets. It also helps to prevent you from ever having a moment where you realized you ran out of toilet paper, or having your guests experience being in that awkward position for themselves!

Stainless Steel Toilet Paper Tray was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Yamasaki Design Works

Designer: Hiroshi Yamasaki

Specifications

Dimensions:
4.5” (w) x 8.8” (l) x 1.6" (h) or 115mm (w) x 223mm (l) x 41mm (h)

Weight:
8.5 oz or 0.2 kg

Materials:
Stainless steel

Details

Resistant to tarnishing and rust
Holds a maximum of three stacked toilet paper rolls
Fits most standard toilet paper roll sizes

Tray can be washed

Stainless Steel Toilet Paper Tray - Double

Bathroom Accessories

I am a Roly Poly Lamp. I’ll light up with a single tap, and turn off automatically so you can take a nap. Sleep tight!

Curator's Notes

The Roly Poly lamp glows by rocking it slightly and automatically turns off after 15 minutes. Designed by Rie Isono who had the idea when she had to put her child to sleep and fell asleep herself during the process. The hand made Hokkaido fir shade is thin enough to let light shine through it and gives off a dim rouge hue as the bulb gradually glows brighter. We love the acorn inspired shape and how it could bring about such an enchanting addition to a bedside table or a child’s bedroom.

Roly Poly Lamp was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Akarino-Tane

Specifications

Dimensions: 3.7” (w) x 3.7” (l) x 4.7" (h) or 95mm (w) x 95mm (l) x 120mm (h)

Weight: 5.9 oz or 167 g

Materials: Fir (shade) and Walnut (base)

Details

Made in Hokkaido, Japan
Lamp turns on by tapping it slightly
LED light operated
Battery operated

Includes two standard AA batteries that are inserted in the twist-off base

Roly Poly Lamp

Lighting

I am a Leather Apron. I can't help but find myself with my arms wrapped around your waist. I think this is the start of something more than a friendship.

Curator's Notes

This leather apron is not like a canvas or cotton cooking apron you'd typically find in a kitchen but it's heavier weight material is appropriate for something more along the lines of a work apron. Great if you're a wood worker or jeweler as it hits just at the waist and offers three pockets for small handheld tools.

Leather Apron was curated by Daniel Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Hender Scheme

Designer: Ryo Kashiwazaki

Specifications

Dimensions:
Each apron is made from natural hides that are irregular in shape. Variations in dimensions will occur.

Front panel approximately: 32” (w) x 19” (l) or 81cm (w) x 48cm (l)
Length of top tie band from end to end: 48" or 122cm
Pocket 1: 5.5 ” (w) x 5.8” (l) or 14cm (w) x 15cm (l)
Pocket 2: 4.0 ” (w) x 5.8” (l) or 10cm (w) x 15cm (l)
Pocket 3: 1.5 ” (w) x 5.8” (l) or 3.8cm (w) x 15cm (l)

Weight:
0.4 lbs or 0.2 kg

Materials:
Pig Leather

Details

Made in Japan
Raw cut along sides and bottom edge
Waist line features a fold over band
Waist tie bands are reinforced with cross-stitching
Features three front patch pockets
Face of the apron is the sueded side of the hide
Small scratches and imperfections can be expected from the pig hide

Leather Apron (out Of Stock)

Aprons

I am a large Carved Flower Plate. Everyone's noticing my smooth flower grooves. Yes, they are natural. And yes, I was born this way.

Curator's Notes

What a special way to display sweet treats or fruit at the dinner table. Various shapes and styles of plates are often used to hold sides and condiments in Japan during meals and we love the idea of serving a guest food on such a special plate. Makes everything look and taste better! These plates can also be used as display or ring trays.

Large Carved Flower Plate was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Jicon

Designer: Masanori Oji

Specifications

Dimensions: 7.5” (w) x 7.5” (l) x 1.75” (h) or 191mm (w) x 191mm (l) x 44mm (h)

Weight: 0.93 lbs or 0.43 kg

Materials: Porcelain

Details

Made in Japan
Debossed Jicon logo on the bottom surface
Fuchi-sabi hand painted iron base accent on the rim
Debossed flower pattern on dish surface
The brand name means "porcelain (JI) in modern times (CON)"
Porcelain is created in the house of IMAMURA of the Touetsugama Kiln, founded 350 years ago
The Touetsugama Kiln originated in Sasebo City in the Nagasaki prefecture but was redeployed to Arita in the Saga prefecture and succeded by IMAMURA Kenichi XIV
The kiln makes porcelain pieces for daily life with its traditional white porcelain techniques using Amakusa Touseki (porcelain stone)

Carved Flower Plate - Large

Home Decor

I am a Kujira Whale Knife. Of all the mammals in the deep blue sea, I am the sharpest there ever will be.

Curator's Notes

This knife gains its namesake from the largest mammals of the sea - whales, or kujira in Japanese. The Kujira Knife has a wonderful origin story that begins with blacksmith, Toru Yamashita. Inspired to create a knife that is at once functional and safe for a child to use for a simple task like sharpening a pencil, Mr. Yamashita forged the tip of the knife in a rounded shape. With a large head and thinner handle, the knife resembled a Sperm whale, and thus the first knife from the Kujira Knife collection was born. The collection now comprises a whole family of whales that include six different forms of different species like the bryde’s, mink and fin whale. Although they can still be used to sharpen pencils, they can also be used as utility knives or, as we like to use them, for chopping mint during cocktail preparations.

Kujira Whale Knife was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Designer: Toru Yamashita

Specifications

Dimensions: 1.4" (w) x 6.3" (l) x 0.1" (h) or 35mm (w) x 160mm (l) x 3mm (h)

Weight: 2.9 oz or 82 g

Materials: Iron

Details

Made in Tosa, Japan - a city in the Kōchi prefecture that faces the Pacific Ocean
Hand-forged

The word ‘Tosa’ and a 'wave' motif is embossed on the knife

Kujira Knife - Sperm Whale

I am a table basket. I like to gather the ones I love and keep them closest to me. When all else fails, food brings every one together.
Curator's Notes

These table baskets are great for a variety of purposes and are ideal for table settings. They can be lined with a kitchen linen to serve up warm buns or hold fruit. We especially like the nice rustic quality of the iron and the ability to mix and match the baskets to create uncomplicated table displays. Sometimes it takes a simple object to help keep you just a little more organized.

Table Basket was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Fog Linen
Designer: Yumiko Sekine

Specifications

Dimensions: 8.5” (w) x 8.5” (l) x 7” (h) or 216mm (w) x 216mm (l) x 178mm (h)

Weight: 0.45 lbs or 0.20 kg

Materials: Iron

Details

Made in India
Handle folds down
Grey wire mesh

Table Basket (out Of Stock)

I am a Kujira Whale Knife. Of all the mammals in the deep blue sea, I am the sharpest there ever will be.

Curator's Notes

This knife gains its namesake from the largest mammals of the sea - whales, or kujira in Japanese. The Kujira Knife has a wonderful origin story that begins with blacksmith, Toru Yamashita. Inspired to create a knife that is at once functional and safe for a child to use for a simple task like sharpening a pencil, Mr. Yamashita forged the tip of the knife in a rounded shape. With a large head and thinner handle, the knife resembled a Sperm whale, and thus the first knife from the Kujira Knife collection was born. The collection now comprises a whole family of whales that include six different forms of different species like the bryde’s, mink and fin whale. Although they can still be used to sharpen pencils, they can also be used as utility knives or, as we like to use them, for chopping mint during cocktail preparations.

Kujira Whale Knife was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Designer: Toru Yamashita

Specifications

Dimensions: 1.4" (w) x 7.1" (l) x 0.1" (h) or 35mm (w) x 180mm (l) x 3mm (h)

Weight: 2.7 oz or 76 g

Materials: Iron

Details

Made in Tosa, Japan - a city in the Kōchi prefecture that faces the Pacific Ocean
Hand-forged

The word ‘Tosa’ and a 'wave' motif is embossed on the knife

Kujira Knife - Bryde's Whale

I am a Cedar Tray. Like my ridges, my purpose is laid bare: holding and serving is all that I care.

Curator's Notes

As seen on Simpicity's pastry stand, this cedar tray celebrates its own simple beauty as much as the items it displays. The natural grain of the wood is laid bare and its joinery is left visible to highlight its handcrafted texture and construction. This tray is versatile and great for everyday use — I particularly enjoy serving tea on it when friends are over.

Cedar Tray was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Simplicity

Specifications

Dimensions: 9.0" (w) x 9.0" (l) x 1.0" (h) or 229mm (w) x 229mm (l) x 25mm (h)

Weight: 3oz or 255g

Materials: Cedar Wood

Details

Made in Japan
Features carved textured surface and natural wood grain of cedar
Visible all-wood joinery
Great for serving tea or sake
Each piece is made from cedar wood and will feature unique variations
Wood products may be sensitive to humidity, and may grow or shrink slightly in response to changes in the weather
Simplicity logo is etched on bottom of tray
To clean, wipe with a damp cloth and dry immediately

Cedar Tray

Decorative Trays

I am a Chicken Cast Iron Ornament. I froze in my footsteps I was such a chicken.

Curator's Notes

This piece is intriguing because it’s in that gray zone between art and design. Many see that intersection between the two as different disciplines but when I look at Miya’s cast iron ornaments, I can’t help but think that they defy classic boundaries.

Cast Iron Ornament was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Kamasada

Designer: Nobuho Miya

Specifications

Dimensions:
Including wood display base: 3.5” (w) x 2.3” (l) x 6.8” (h) or 8.9cm (w) x 5.7cm (l) x 14cm (h)
Wood display base: 2.3"(w) x 2.3"(l) or 5.7cm (w) x 5.7cm(l)

Weight:
1.5 lbs or 0.7 kg

Materials:
Nambu Tekki Cast Iron, Wood

Details

Made in Japan
Hand-forged
Sculpture slots into a wood display base
Lacquered with a urushi glaze that prevents rust

Cast Iron Ornament - Chicken

I am a limited edition Clear Whiskey Glass. I start off neat and depending on how the night goes, might end up a little messy and muddled. No matter what, my lines are drawn clearly so I know when to cut myself off when I’ve reached my limit.

Curator's Notes

To coincide with our Glass Half Full Exhibition, we collaboratively designed a series of whiskey glasses with Kazumi Tsuji. Offered in three different colours and a clear version, these mouth-blown rock glasses feature hand-cut slashes and a smooth rim band for enjoying whiskey's nuances with minimal interference. Whether you like it neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, these glasses were designed to enhance the experience.

This Whiskey Glass was made exclusively for Nalata Nalata

Designer/Maker

Maker: factory zoomer

Designer: Kazumi Tsuji x Nalata Nalata

Specifications

Dimensions: 3.25” (dia) x 2.88" (h) or 8.2cm (dia) x 7.3cm (h)

Weight: 6 oz or 170 g

Materials: Glass

Volume: Approximately 7 fl oz or 207 ml

Details

Handmade in Kanazawa, Japan
Produced in limited edition runs
Mouth-blown
Features deep hand-cut glass diagonal line pattern
Each glass has handmade characteristics that are unique. Slight variations in form, pattern and opacity may occur, including natural irregularities in the glass
Hand wash

Whiskey Glass - Clear (out Of Stock)

Cocktail Glasses

I am an Uzukumaru Chiisaki-Hanaire Vase. I love all the guests that occupy my space. Although they are fleeting, their temporary presence is always appreciated.

Curator's Notes

In the art of Japanese flower arrangement, vases are specifically chosen to enhance the flowers in which they hold. We love how these vases are miniature interpretations of 6 classical Japanese vessels, allowing many to appreciate seasonal flowers with less commitment! Collect all six and the arrangements are endless! These vases are not waterproof and therefore should not be filled with water. They are designed in a way to appreciate the fleeting beauty of a single sprig or small berry-bearing twig. All six shapes available here.

Uzukumaru Chiisaki-Hanaire Vase was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Akarino-Tane

Designer: Hiroyuki Inoue

Specifications

Dimensions: 1.3” (dia) x 1.5” (h), 0.3" (vent) or 33mm (dia) x 38mm (h), 8.0mm (vent)

Weight: 1.5 oz or 43 gr

Materials: Maple

Details

Handmade in Hokkaido, Japan
Urethane finish
Do not pour water inside
Vases are not waterproof
All six shapes available here

Chiisaki Hanaire Mini Vase - Uzukumaru

I am a Forged Teaspoon. Heavy hearts like heavy spoons are best relieved with a cup of warm tea.

Curator's Notes

Forged cutlery is made from thick pieces of stainless steel. The raw stainless steel in this collection is heated with a blowtorch in order to shape it by repeatedly beating with a hammer and other tools. This process causes the utensils to be very dense and in turn have unparalleled strength and weight. View the whole collection here.

Forged Cutlery was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Mitsuhiro Konishi

Designer: Mitsuhiro Konishi

Specifications

Dimensions:

1.0” (w) x 5.3” (l) x 0.5” (h) or
26mm (w) x 135mm (l) x 13mm (h)

Weight:

0.6 oz or 17 g

Materials:
Stainless Steel

Details

Made in Gifu, Japan
Composed of a solid piece of hand-forged stainless steel
We recommend hand washing with mild soap and soft sponge
Dry with soft cloth after washing
Each spoon is individually handcrafted by a solo artisan. Contact us for lead times at 

Forged Teaspoon

I am a Herringbone Leather Rug. From this vantage point, I see straight through to the depths of your soles.

Curator's Notes

The issue with rugs is that they pick up dirt and marks from being stepped on. Hender Scheme turns this negative into a positive with the use of leather for a mat. A well-weathered piece of leather carries natural marks from age that actually add to its beauty. This rug was made from the same high quality leather that Hender Scheme uses for the insoles and soles of their hand-crafted shoes. The varying finishes laid out in a herringbone pattern is reminiscent of tiles but a great deal more comfortable beneath the feet. Durable and unique, it's a rug that will be loved for a long time.

Herringbone Leather Rug was curated by Daniel Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Hender Scheme

Designer: Ryo Kashiwazaki

Specifications

Dimensions:

23” (w) x 33" (l) or 57cm (w) x 84cm (l)

Weight:

6.0 lb or 3.0 kg

Materials:
Cow Leather

Details

Handmade in Japan
Top layer is patch-worked together and held firmly in place to an under layer of leather - the same process utilized in the making of Hender Scheme's leather shoe soles
Small scratches and imperfections can be expected from the raw cow hide
The leather will naturally develop a patina over time and showcase unique traces of everyday use

Herringbone Leather Rug (out Of Stock)

Rugs

I am a Big Mouth Fish Cast Iron Ornament… The better to eat you with!

Curator's Notes

This piece is intriguing because it’s in that gray zone between art and design. Many see that intersection between the two as different disciplines but when I look at Miya’s cast iron ornaments, I can’t help but think that they defy classic boundaries.

Cast Iron Ornament was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Kamasada

Designer: Nobuho Miya

Specifications

Dimensions:
Including wood display base: 7.0” (w) x 2.3” (l) x 6.3” (h) or 18cm (w) x 5.7cm (l) x 16cm (h)
Wood display base: 2.3"(w) x 2.3"(l) or 5.7cm (w) x 5.7cm(l)

Weight:
2.2 lbs or 1.0 kg

Materials:
Nambu Tekki Cast Iron, Wood

Details

Made in Japan
Hand-forged
Sculpture slots into a wood display base
Lacquered with a urushi glaze that prevents rust

Cast Iron Ornament - Big Mouth Fish

I am a Ryo Bouillon Spoon. Classy is when a spoon is the perfect compliment to a soup or stew, and has a name like Bouillon.

Curator's Notes

Both elegant and artisanal, the Ryo cutlery series serves as a fantastic complement to everyday dining environments. Employing his expertise in metal arts, Yuichi Takemata finishes each stainless steel piece by hand in his Kanazawa based atelier. Takemata’s special method of hand hammering offers a rich texture to the surface that gives the collection an antique appearance.

Ryo Cutlery Series was curated Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Yuichi Takemata and Tasan Kinzoku co.
Designer: Osamu Saruyama

Specifications

Dimensions:
Bouillon Spoon: 1.8”(w) x 5.9”(l) or 44mm(w) x 149mm(l)

Weight:

Bouillon Spoon: 1.5 oz or 43 g

Details

Made in Japan
Features decorative ridged handles
Constructed of heavy weight stainless steel
Each piece is hand finished by Yuichi Takemata
As the pieces are hand hammered, slight differences may occur in surface texture

Ryo Series - Bouillon Spoon

I am Tetu Bookends. I've learned over the years that every new beginning comes from some other beginning's end.

Curator's Notes

I look for bookends with a simple profile but it can be hard to find ones heavy enough to actually do the job right. These bookends have a lovely minimalist form and are made of solid cast iron to be at once beautiful and substantial. The pair’s differing sizes add a note of whimsy to their character.

Tetu Bookends were curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Tetu

Designer: Makoto Koizumi

Specifications

Dimensions:
Smaller bookend: 3.5” (w) x 3.5” (l) x 4.70” (h) or 90mm (w) x 90mm (l) x 120mm (h)
Larger bookend: 3.5” (w) x 3.5” (l) x 5.90” (h) or 90mm (w) x 90mm (l) x 150mm (h)

Weight: 8.8 lbs or 4 kg

Materials: Nambu Cast Iron

Details

Made in Japan
Includes a set of two differently sized bookends
Made from Nambu Cast Iron
Has a smooth but pebbly surface
Firmly holds heavyweight books
Width and height is interchangeable for holding a variety of book sizes

Tetu Bookends

Bookends

I am Ryo Butter Cutlery. Even the coolest butter will melt at the sight of my steel body.

Curator's Notes

Both elegant and artisanal, the Ryo cutlery series serves as a fantastic complement to everyday dining environments. Employing his expertise in metal arts, Yuichi Takemata finishes each stainless steel piece by hand in his Kanazawa based atelier. Takemata’s special method of hand hammering offers a rich texture to the surface that gives the collection an antique appearance.

Ryo Cutlery Series was curated Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Yuichi Takemata and Tasan Kinzoku co.
Designer: Osamu Saruyama

Specifications

Dimensions:
Butter Knife: 1.0”(w) x 6.9”(l) or 25mm(w) x 175mm(l)

Butter Spreader: 1.0”(w) x 70”(l) or 25mm(w) x 178mm(l)

Weight:

Butter Knife: 1.6 oz or 45 g

Butter Spreader: 1.6 oz or 45 g

Details

Made in Japan
Features decorative ridged handles
Blades are beveled at the edge
Constructed of heavy weight stainless steel
Each piece is hand finished by Yuichi Takemata
As the pieces are hand hammered, slight differences may occur in surface texture

Ryo Series - Butter Cutlery

I am a set of brass paperweights. We pin down papers like an acclaimed three-time heavyweight champion. We're small guys but pack a punch.  Those other guys have no fighting chance with us!

Curator's Notes

These paperweights are a great addition for any desk. They can pin down papers, business cards or receipts. We love the subtle textural difference as two sides of each polyhedron have smooth brushed finishes while the others feature crude casting surfaces. Their weight feels substantial and appropriate for daily use while the slow oxidization of the brass keeps its coloration and texture looking richer over many years of usage.
Brass Paperweight Set was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Futagami
Designer: Masanori Oji

Specifications

Dimensions: 1.75” (w) x 1.75” (l) x 1.5” (h) or 44mm (w) x 44mm (l) x 38mm (h) – Square

1.75” (w) x 1.75” (l) x 1.5” (h) or 44mm (w) x 44mm (l) x 38mm (h) – Rhombus

1.75” (w) x 1.75” (l) x 1.5” (h) or 44mm (w) x 44mm (l) x 38mm (h) - Triangle

Weight:

0.65lbs or 0.30kg – Square

0.55lbs or 0.25kg – Rhombus

0.55lbs or 0.25kg - Triangle

Materials: Brass

Details

Made in Japan
Set of three paperweights - square, triangle and rhombus
Individual paperweights are also available in the shop
Copper acquisition from Toyama Prefecture
Molding in Takaoka City
Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc
Brass products gradually change their color over the course of many years due to oxidization
A camel colored patina is expected to develop within 5 years
A russet brown color patina is expected to develop at approximately 30 years
Casted brass  and polished brass surface
Engraved Futagami logo

Brass Paperweight Set

Paperweights

I am Bamboo Chopsticks. Some call me a genius, because I pick things up so quickly.

Curator's Notes

Design studio Simplicity aims to bring traditional Japanese culture to a modern audience. With each piece they create, they take traditional elements and streamline the design to improve and make it current. For instance, these chopsticks seem basic at first glance, but upon closer look reveal inspired details. The ends taper to a precise point, which not only looks elegant, but also makes the chopsticks easier to grip food. One side of each chopstick has been sliced to create a flat surface, preventing them from rolling when placed on the table.

Bamboo Chopsticks were curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Simplicity

Specifications

Dimensions: 0.3” (w) x 9.9” (l) x 0.3" (h) or 7mm (w) x 251mm (l) x 7mm (h)

Weight: 0.3 oz or 9 g

Materials: Bamboo

Details

Made in Japan
Not suitable for dishwasher
Each piece is made from raw bamboo and will feature unique variations
We recommend hand-washing with mild soap and soft sponge