{"product_id":"japanese-wood-coasters-set-of-5-tea-saucers-zelkova-handcrafted-natural-grain-wabi-sabi-zen-decor-traditional-rustic-style","title":"Japanese Wood Coasters | Set of 5 | Tea Saucers | Zelkova | Handcrafted | Natural Grain | Wabi Sabi | Zen Decor | Traditional | Rustic Style","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Story Behind This Piece:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDeep within the vast storehouse (kura) of a 150-year-old traditional folk house (kominka) in the mountainous northern region of Hiroshima Prefecture—an area once celebrated for its \"tatara\" iron manufacturing—these five wooden coasters (chataku) were discovered. Hidden behind a heavy, lacquer-finished chest, they lay preserved inside a paulownia wood box. These pieces date back to the early to mid-Showa era (late 1940s to 1950s), a period when Japan's \"Mingei\" (folk art) movement was at its peak, finding profound beauty in functional objects used by ordinary people in their daily lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe original owner of these coasters was the patriarch of a family that had served as village headmen for generations. In those days, the homes of local dignitaries were hubs of social interaction. These coasters were essential \"omotenashi\" (hospitality) tools, used specifically for greeting guests during New Year's celebrations or important communal gatherings. Crafted by a skilled woodturner from sturdy Zelkova (Keyaki) wood, the powerful grain patterns evoke the resilient vitality of a tree that has endured many harsh winters. The precise concentric circles (dokoma-bori) carved into the center were more than mere decoration; they symbolized the owner’s wish for a harmonious life and for the family's prosperity to ripple outward through the generations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eImagine the scene of their use: a fire flickering in the sunken hearth (irori), steam rising from an iron kettle. In a solemn tatami room, a white porcelain teacup filled with high-quality sencha is placed quietly onto this deep, amber-colored coaster. The guest would feel the warmth of the wood and the unique, silky texture of the lacquer that had matured over time. Looking at the dignified presence of the coaster, the guest would instantly perceive the host's sincere spirit of hospitality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, as Japan entered the era of rapid economic growth, lifestyles became increasingly Westernized. The center of daily life shifted from tatami mats to hardwood floors, and from green tea to coffee. Ceremonal occasions moved from private homes to specialized banquet halls. These coasters, designed for entertaining groups of guests, completed their initial mission and were carefully wrapped in washi paper and placed in the storehouse. For more than half a century, they rested in silence and darkness. Ironically, the consistent humidity and temperature of the storehouse acted as a \"natural aging cellar,\" preventing the lacquer from drying out and minimizing any warping of the wood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe reason for bringing these coasters out of the storehouse today is the planned demolition of the old estate and the subsequent cataloging of its contents. Just before the house was to be dismantled, an appraiser rediscovered them, recognizing the overwhelming power of \"hand craftsmanship\" and the aesthetic of \"wabi-sabi\"—the beauty of imperfection and impermanence that only comes with age. These pieces possess a deep luster, as if glowing from within, where the lacquer has settled into the wood grain over decades—a quality that no brand-new product can ever replicate. This is the very essence of Japanese Mingei value.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToday, their value extends far beyond mere antique rarity. In a modern world increasingly focused on sustainability, these tools—made from natural materials and designed to be used across generations—represent the ultimate luxury. The harmony between the wild, natural grain of the Zelkova wood and the sophisticated, refined form allows them to blend seamlessly into contemporary interiors. Whether used as traditional coasters or as small serving plates for sweets, they add immense depth to any table setting. These five coasters are not just \"holders for cups\"; they are warm bridges connecting the meticulous lifestyle of old Japan, the pride of the craftsman, and the memory of the land to the present day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eCondition \u0026amp; Notes:\u003cbr\u003ePlease note before purchasing.\u003cbr\u003eThis is a vintage or antique item sold as-is.\u003cbr\u003eDue to age and long-term storage, natural signs of wear and aging may be present, including:\u003cbr\u003e* small scratches or scuffs\u003cbr\u003e* fading or discoloration\u003cbr\u003e* glaze irregularities or imperfections\u003cbr\u003e* crackling (crazing), kiln marks, or gold wear\u003cbr\u003e* slight warping or age-related changes in wooden parts\u003cbr\u003eVintage and antique items may also carry natural storage-related scents from wood, paper, lacquer, smoke, or long-term preservation environments.\u003cbr\u003eThese characteristics are part of the individuality, historical character, and quiet beauty that vintage Japanese items carry.\u003cbr\u003eThey are not flaws, but the gentle traces of time.\u003cbr\u003eWe kindly ask for your understanding that vintage and antique items differ from newly manufactured products.\u003cbr\u003eWe do our best to show all notable details in the photos, but some small imperfections may not be fully visible.\u003cbr\u003ePlease review the dimensions carefully before purchasing, as photos may make items appear larger or smaller depending on display settings and shooting conditions.\u003cbr\u003ePlease note that colors may appear slightly different depending on lighting conditions and screen settings.\u003cbr\u003eOnly the items shown in the photos are included unless otherwise stated.\u003cbr\u003eDisplay stands, decorative props, or accessories used for photography are not included unless explicitly stated.\u003cbr\u003eThank you for appreciating the character and spirit of these timeworn pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeight: 2.1 cm (0.83 in)\u003cbr\u003eDepth: 12.1 cm (4.76 in)\u003cbr\u003eWidth: 12.1 cm (4.76 in)\u003cbr\u003eBase: 5.1 cm (2.01 in)\u003cbr\u003eWeight: 50 g (1.76 oz)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShipping Information:\u003cbr\u003eAll items are shipped from Hiroshima, Japan.\u003cbr\u003eOrders are usually dispatched within 3–5 business days after payment is confirmed.\u003cbr\u003eFor shipments to the United States, we use DHL Express or UPS with full tracking and insurance.\u003cbr\u003eFor all other destinations, orders are shipped via DHL Express, UPS, or Japan Post EMS depending on the destination and shipping conditions.\u003cbr\u003eEach item is carefully packed with protective materials to ensure safe delivery.\u003cbr\u003eEstimated delivery time is approximately 7–14 business days depending on customs procedures, local delivery conditions, weather disruptions, and customs inspections.\u003cbr\u003eInternational Buyers – Duties, VAT \u0026amp; Taxes:\u003cbr\u003eImport duties \/ customs duties are covered by us for all available shipping destinations.\u003cbr\u003eHowever, VAT, GST, consumption taxes, customs processing fees, carrier handling fees, and other local import-related charges are not included in the item price unless otherwise stated.\u003cbr\u003eThese charges are the responsibility of the buyer.\u003cbr\u003eDepending on your country’s regulations, these charges may be collected either by local customs authorities or by the shipping carrier upon delivery.\u003cbr\u003eFor many higher-value international orders, VAT\/GST and import-related processing charges are commonly collected at the time of delivery.\u003cbr\u003ePlease note that free shipping or customs duty coverage does not mean that VAT\/GST or local import-related charges are included.\u003cbr\u003eEven when customs duties are covered by us, VAT\/GST and local import-related charges may still be payable separately by the buyer upon delivery.\u003cbr\u003eWe do not mark items as gifts or under-declare their value for customs purposes.\u003cbr\u003ePlease ensure that your shipping address and contact information are accurate and complete.\u003cbr\u003eIf a package is returned due to an incorrect address, unpaid VAT\/GST or import-related charges, refusal, or failed delivery, all return and reshipping costs are the buyer’s responsibility.\u003cbr\u003eInternational deliveries may occasionally experience delays due to customs procedures or local postal conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDamage During Shipping:\u003cbr\u003eIn the unlikely event that your item arrives damaged, please contact us within 10 days of delivery and provide clear photos of:\u003cbr\u003e* the damaged item\u003cbr\u003e* the outer shipping box\u003cbr\u003e* the inside packaging condition\u003cbr\u003e* the shipping label\u003cbr\u003ePlease keep all packaging materials and damaged items until the shipping carrier completes the investigation.\u003cbr\u003eMinor imperfections consistent with the nature of vintage or antique items are not considered shipping damage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReturns \u0026amp; Refunds:\u003cbr\u003eAll items are vintage or antique and sold as-is.\u003cbr\u003eDue to the nature of vintage and antique items, we generally do not accept returns, cancellations, or refunds except where required by law or covered by shipping insurance.\u003cbr\u003eReturns or refunds are not accepted for reasons such as:\u003cbr\u003e* change of mind\u003cbr\u003e* customs delays\u003cbr\u003e* minor differences in condition\u003cbr\u003e* color differences\u003cbr\u003e* texture variations\u003cbr\u003e* size impression differences\u003cbr\u003e* natural signs of age and wear\u003cbr\u003eHowever, if severe loss or damage during shipping is officially confirmed by the carrier’s insurance, we will respond within the scope of the insurance coverage.\u003cbr\u003eFor customers in the UK and EU, applicable consumer protection laws and cooling-off rights will take precedence where required by law.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSafety \u0026amp; Usage:\u003cbr\u003eThese items are decorative vintage or antique pieces intended for adult collectors.\u003cbr\u003eThey are not toys and are not suitable for direct food use.\u003cbr\u003eVintage ceramics may contain historical materials or glazes that do not meet modern food safety standards.\u003cbr\u003eWe cannot guarantee suitability for modern food, beverage, dishwasher, microwave, oven, or direct cooking use.\u003cbr\u003ePlease enjoy them as decorative objects that bring quiet beauty and history into your space.\u003cbr\u003eHandle with care and avoid prolonged exposure to moisture, direct sunlight, or heat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLiability Disclaimer:\u003cbr\u003eWe cannot be held responsible for any accidents, damage, allergic reactions, injury, loss, or issues resulting from the use, handling, aging, restoration, transportation, or storage of vintage or antique items.\u003cbr\u003eAll products are sold as decorative vintage collectibles, and customers are responsible for proper handling, display, usage, and storage.\u003cbr\u003eBy completing your purchase, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdditional Notes by Region:\u003cbr\u003e■ United States\u003cbr\u003eState taxes, such as Sales Tax, may be collected according to local regulations.\u003cbr\u003eCalifornia Proposition 65:\u2028Some vintage items may contain historical materials such as natural lacquer, pigments, metals, or antique finishes. This notice is provided for informational purposes only.\u003cbr\u003e■ European Union (EU)\u003cbr\u003eOur shop is not registered for IOSS or EU VAT collection.\u003cbr\u003eImport VAT, customs processing fees, handling charges, or other import-related charges may be collected upon delivery according to local regulations.\u003cbr\u003eThese charges are the responsibility of the buyer.\u003cbr\u003e■ United Kingdom\u003cbr\u003eOur shop is not registered for UK VAT collection.\u003cbr\u003eImport VAT and related charges may be collected upon delivery.\u003cbr\u003eThe buyer will be considered the importer of record for customs purposes.\u003cbr\u003e■ Switzerland, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand\u003cbr\u003eImport VAT\/GST, customs processing fees, handling fees, carrier fees, or other import-related charges may apply according to local regulations.\u003cbr\u003eFor Taiwan:\u2028Registration with the EZ WAY app may be required for customs clearance.\u003cbr\u003e■ Hong Kong\u003cbr\u003eHong Kong currently does not generally impose VAT\/GST on imported goods.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eContact Us:\u003cbr\u003eIf you have any questions regarding our items, shipping, usage, dimensions, or condition, please feel free to contact us before purchasing.\u003cbr\u003eWe’re happy to assist you and will do our best to respond as promptly as possible.\u003cbr\u003eThank you for considering a piece from our kura — each item carries a quiet story shaped by time in Japan.\u003cbr\u003eThis piece is part of our curated collection discovered in rural Japan.\u003cbr\u003eOn our official website, we share:\u003cbr\u003e– the story of the kura (traditional Japanese storehouse) where this item was discovered\u2028– background on how similar objects were once used in everyday life\u2028– exclusive collections and pieces not listed elsewhere\u003cbr\u003eWe hope these objects will continue their quiet journey with you.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"meguru","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51923528286494,"sku":"A01-21","price":33299.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0954\/8451\/0494\/files\/IMG_7650.jpg?v=1780538534","url":"https:\/\/megurujapan.com\/de\/products\/japanese-wood-coasters-set-of-5-tea-saucers-zelkova-handcrafted-natural-grain-wabi-sabi-zen-decor-traditional-rustic-style","provider":"meguru","version":"1.0","type":"link"}