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Byakudan Tea Caddy
Byakudan Tea Caddy
Byakudan Tea Caddy
Byakudan Tea Caddy
Byakudan Tea Caddy
Byakudan Tea Caddy
Byakudan Tea Caddy
Byakudan Tea Caddy
Byakudan Tea Caddy
Byakudan Tea Caddy

By 190+ Year Old Urushi Lacquer Company in Kyoto

Byakudan Tea Caddy

MA-615

Regular price $ 85.00 Sale

Isuke - Specialized Urushi Lacquer in Kyoto for Over 190 Years

Isuke was founded in Kyoto as an Urushi lacquer business in the late Edo period (1600-1868). The company has produced the natural material of Japanese lacquerware and lacquerware products for more than 190 years. 

This family company, now operating under its 7th generation, continues to specialize in simple and modern tableware that combines the long-standing techniques of Japanese Urushi lacquerware with novel designs. Everyone at Isuke is committed to and passionate about bringing the beauty of Urushi lacquerware to the world.

Urushi: Japanese Lacquerware - Meticulous Craftsmanship

Asian lacquer trees produce a unique, natural sap that is unmatched by modern imitations. The sap's strength makes their products both highly durable and water-resistant.

Human use of this lacquer sap, called Urushi, has a history that goes back to the Stone Age, when it was originally utilized as an adhesive throughout Asia. It is the Japanese, however, who were first to recognize its inherent beauty and who first introduced its use into their craftsmanship. Without doubt, Japanese Urushi is one of the most famous traditional crafts in Japan, and throughout this long-standing history the techniques have been improved and refined.

Japanese Urushi lacquerware is crafted through various manufacturing processes; lathing, painting, polishing and decorating. These Japanese Urushi lacquerware products vary from everyday-use items such as soup bowls, rice bowls, plates and cups to luxury furniture and tea ceremony set. These products are symbols of Japanese culture.

Urushi Tea Caddy - Traditional Masterpiece

This elegant tea caddy boasts a glossy, alluring finish that exudes sophistication and a dazzling charm. The intricate design creates an enchanting play of light and shadow on its surface, making every meal a visual delight. The design embodies the ancient imagery of the "Nichigetsu" or sun and moon, evoking a sense of grace and a serene atmosphere.

Byakudan Technique

The Byakudan technique, known as "sandalwood lacquering," is a meticulous process in which Urushi lacquer is expertly applied over silver maki-e or silver leaf to create raised patterns. This craft skillfully harnesses the subtle translucency of lacquer, resulting in a lustrous and breathtaking finish.

This design effortlessly combines a serene ambiance with a dazzling impression, making it a perfect fit for contemporary lifestyles.

One of the signature wabi-sabi characteristics of Byakudan lacquer is that the upper lacquer layer will gradually become transparent with age because of the natural oxidation. This will result in the tone of the amber becoming lighter and somewhat shinier. You can enjoy the development of its aging as you use it for a long time.

Enjoy this tea caddy with our premium selections of matcha, tea tools and tools found in our Teatime Essentials collection here

  • Size: 2.7" diameter x 4.3" high | 7.0 cm diameter x 11.0 cm high
  • Weight: 7.3 oz | 207 g
  • Material: Wood powder and resin molding, Urushi coating
  • Brand: Isuke
  • Origin: Japan

Usage and Care

  • Hand-wash only. Wash in lukewarm water with a soft sponge and rinse well.
  • Avoid direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
  • Never put your lacquerware in a microwave oven or dishwasher.
  • Keep away from stoves or heaters, and avoid excessive dryness and humidity.
  • Do not stack on top of other lacquer products.
  • Do not use sharp eating utensils such as knife and fork.
  • Do not apply excessive weight to the product.
  • Do not store food in the lacquerware.
  • Do not put lacquerware in refrigerator.
  • To restore luster, polish with a soft dry cloth, and if necessary, apply a few drops of vegetable oil.

Domestic Orders

  • Usually ships out in-stock items within 3 business days of order.
  • We use FedEx, USPS Priority Mail, or USPS First Class Mail to ship our products, depending on the size and weight of the package.
  • Read about the shipping information and terms in our Customer Service Page.
  • Free shipping with purchase of $375 or more! (Within Continental US only. Total purchase amount to qualify excludes free shipping offer items.)

International Orders

  • Usually ship out in-stock within 5 business days of order.
  • We use USPS Priority Mail International for international shipping.
  • We do not accept any returns for international orders. Any additional charges (including but not limited to import tax, custom fees, VAT, brokerage charge) that might incur after the order lands in the destination country must be borne by the recipient.
  • Read about the shipping information and terms in our Customer Service Page.