Japanese Lacquerware | Wooden Coaster Set of 5 | Akebono Nuri | Urushi Linen Inlay | Tea Ceremony | Zen Decor | Wabi Sabi | Natural Wood Art

The Story Behind This Piece:

In the northern reaches of Hiroshima Prefecture, within the Geihoku mountain range, the landscape is shrouded in deep snow every winter. Standing amidst this harsh yet beautiful nature is a traditional storehouse (kura) of an ancestral estate built over 150 years ago. From a weathered paulownia wood box found in the deepest corner of that storehouse, these five saucers (chataku) have quietly emerged. This region once flourished with "tatara" iron manufacturing and timber trade, fostering a unique culture among wealthy landowners who cherished their traditions. These saucers were crafted in the Mid-Showa period (around the 1950s to 60s), an era when the spirit of reconstruction and rapid economic growth coexisted with the deep-rooted traditions of manual craftsmanship. In those days, it was a point of pride for families in northern Hiroshima to commission top-tier artisans to create lacquerware for formal ceremonies and entertaining prestigious guests.

The most captivating aspect of these pieces is the lacquer technique known as "Akebono-nuri." In this traditional process, a base coat of vermilion (red) lacquer is applied first, followed by layers of black lacquer. Before or after the lacquer fully dries, the surface is meticulously polished or ground down to allow the underlying red to peek through faintly. Japanese people have long admired this effect, likening it to the first rays of light breaking through the darkness of night—hence the name "Akebono," which means "Dawn." In these saucers, a subtle hint of red can be seen along the "Rinka" edges. A beautiful characteristic of this finish is that as it is used and aged, the red becomes more pronounced, allowing the owner to "grow" the piece over time. This understated aesthetic, deeply rooted in "Wabi-Sabi," is the very essence of Japanese beauty.

The design itself is a testament to the artisan's dedication. The outer edge features "Rinka" (flower petal) carvings, a technique requiring masterful skill to shave hard natural wood into uniform, undulating curves. This creates a captivating play of light and shadow depending on the viewing angle. Furthermore, the center of each saucer is treated with the "Nunome" (cloth texture) technique. Applying hemp cloth before the final coats of lacquer is not merely decorative; it is a stroke of practical genius. This texture prevents the bottom of a teacup from sticking to the saucer due to suction or moisture and protects the surface from scratches. This marriage of utility and aesthetic—known as "Yo-no-Bi" (the beauty of use)—is a hallmark of the Mingei (folk art) movement.

The original owners were a family of local dignitaries who played central roles in community meetings and ceremonies. In the Mid-Showa era, during family gatherings and formal occasions in the tatami-matted parlor, these saucers supported the finest sencha tea. Those who held them would have felt a moment of serenity in the lightness of the natural wood and the moist, silky texture of the lacquer. However, as lifestyles rapidly westernized and lacquerware—which requires careful maintenance—was replaced by mass-produced items, these pieces were eventually tucked away in the depths of the storehouse. For over half a century, they underwent a period of "aging" in the stable humidity of the earthen walls, untouched and undisturbed.

The decision to bring these pieces out of the storehouse came when the descendant of the family decided to organize the old estate. Their heartfelt wish was simple: "I cannot bear to let these sleep forever. I want them to be used by someone who understands their beauty and will breathe new life into them within a modern lifestyle." Upon waking from their long slumber, these saucers possess an undeniable sense of depth. As the lacquer dried and matured over decades, the grain of the wood began to subtly emerge, giving the deep black finish a profound sense of texture. This is a "scenery" that no new product can replicate; it is an aesthetic born only from the passage of time.

In the modern world, these saucers are far more than just "old tools." As we re-evaluate sustainable living, tools made solely from natural wood and lacquer become partners meant to last a lifetime. Even on a modern dining table, this deep black exudes a dignified presence. They can be used as individual plates for wagashi (Japanese sweets) or as elegant bases for small flower vases. The silence and pride nurtured in that mountain storehouse will bring a sense of profound peace and timeless philosophy to your daily life. This is the final radiance of a fading Japanese craftsmanship, waiting to be rediscovered by you.

Condition & Notes:
Please note before purchasing.
This is a vintage or antique item sold as-is.
Due to age and long-term storage, natural signs of wear and aging may be present, including:
* small scratches or scuffs
* fading or discoloration
* glaze irregularities or imperfections
* crackling (crazing), kiln marks, or gold wear
* slight warping or age-related changes in wooden parts
Vintage and antique items may also carry natural storage-related scents from wood, paper, lacquer, smoke, or long-term preservation environments.
These characteristics are part of the individuality, historical character, and quiet beauty that vintage Japanese items carry.
They are not flaws, but the gentle traces of time.
We kindly ask for your understanding that vintage and antique items differ from newly manufactured products.
We do our best to show all notable details in the photos, but some small imperfections may not be fully visible.
Please review the dimensions carefully before purchasing, as photos may make items appear larger or smaller depending on display settings and shooting conditions.
Please note that colors may appear slightly different depending on lighting conditions and screen settings.
Only the items shown in the photos are included unless otherwise stated.
Display stands, decorative props, or accessories used for photography are not included unless explicitly stated.
Thank you for appreciating the character and spirit of these timeworn pieces.

Dimensions:

Height: 2.5 cm (0.98 in)
Depth: 14.8 cm (5.83 in)
Width: 14.8 cm (5.83 in)
Base: 7.5 cm (2.95 in)
Weight: 80 g (2.82 oz)

Shipping Information:
All items are shipped from Hiroshima, Japan.
Orders are usually dispatched within 3–5 business days after payment is confirmed.
For shipments to the United States, we use DHL Express or UPS with full tracking and insurance.
For all other destinations, orders are shipped via DHL Express, UPS, or Japan Post EMS depending on the destination and shipping conditions.
Each item is carefully packed with protective materials to ensure safe delivery.
Estimated delivery time is approximately 7–14 business days depending on customs procedures, local delivery conditions, weather disruptions, and customs inspections.
International Buyers – Duties, VAT & Taxes:
Import duties / customs duties are covered by us for all available shipping destinations.
However, 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.
These charges are the responsibility of the buyer.
Depending on your country’s regulations, these charges may be collected either by local customs authorities or by the shipping carrier upon delivery.
For many higher-value international orders, VAT/GST and import-related processing charges are commonly collected at the time of delivery.
Please note that free shipping or customs duty coverage does not mean that VAT/GST or local import-related charges are included.
Even when customs duties are covered by us, VAT/GST and local import-related charges may still be payable separately by the buyer upon delivery.
We do not mark items as gifts or under-declare their value for customs purposes.
Please ensure that your shipping address and contact information are accurate and complete.
If 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.
International deliveries may occasionally experience delays due to customs procedures or local postal conditions.

Damage During Shipping:
In the unlikely event that your item arrives damaged, please contact us within 10 days of delivery and provide clear photos of:
* the damaged item
* the outer shipping box
* the inside packaging condition
* the shipping label
Please keep all packaging materials and damaged items until the shipping carrier completes the investigation.
Minor imperfections consistent with the nature of vintage or antique items are not considered shipping damage.

Returns & Refunds:
All items are vintage or antique and sold as-is.
Due 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.
Returns or refunds are not accepted for reasons such as:
* change of mind
* customs delays
* minor differences in condition
* color differences
* texture variations
* size impression differences
* natural signs of age and wear
However, 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.
For customers in the UK and EU, applicable consumer protection laws and cooling-off rights will take precedence where required by law.

Safety & Usage:
These items are decorative vintage or antique pieces intended for adult collectors.
They are not toys and are not suitable for direct food use.
Vintage ceramics may contain historical materials or glazes that do not meet modern food safety standards.
We cannot guarantee suitability for modern food, beverage, dishwasher, microwave, oven, or direct cooking use.
Please enjoy them as decorative objects that bring quiet beauty and history into your space.
Handle with care and avoid prolonged exposure to moisture, direct sunlight, or heat.

Liability Disclaimer:
We 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.
All products are sold as decorative vintage collectibles, and customers are responsible for proper handling, display, usage, and storage.
By completing your purchase, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.

Additional Notes by Region:
■ United States
State taxes, such as Sales Tax, may be collected according to local regulations.
California Proposition 65:
Some vintage items may contain historical materials such as natural lacquer, pigments, metals, or antique finishes. This notice is provided for informational purposes only.
■ European Union (EU)
Our shop is not registered for IOSS or EU VAT collection.
Import VAT, customs processing fees, handling charges, or other import-related charges may be collected upon delivery according to local regulations.
These charges are the responsibility of the buyer.
■ United Kingdom
Our shop is not registered for UK VAT collection.
Import VAT and related charges may be collected upon delivery.
The buyer will be considered the importer of record for customs purposes.
■ Switzerland, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand
Import VAT/GST, customs processing fees, handling fees, carrier fees, or other import-related charges may apply according to local regulations.
For Taiwan:
Registration with the EZ WAY app may be required for customs clearance.
■ Hong Kong
Hong Kong currently does not generally impose VAT/GST on imported goods.

Contact Us:
If you have any questions regarding our items, shipping, usage, dimensions, or condition, please feel free to contact us before purchasing.
We’re happy to assist you and will do our best to respond as promptly as possible.
Thank you for considering a piece from our kura — each item carries a quiet story shaped by time in Japan.
This piece is part of our curated collection discovered in rural Japan.
On our official website, we share:
– the story of the kura (traditional Japanese storehouse) where this item was discovered
– background on how similar objects were once used in everyday life
– exclusive collections and pieces not listed elsewhere
We hope these objects will continue their quiet journey with you.