Goushi Lidded Box: Iroha Poem with Gold and Silver Accents

This is a lidded box delicately crafted with a cutout design, inspired by the iconic first phrase of the Iroha poem, "Iroha nihoheto." A "goushi" refers to a small container with a lid. It can be used as a tea caddy, an incense container (a small lidded vessel used in tea ceremony to hold incense), or simply as a decorative piece. It's a modern piece that embodies the warmth of meticulous handwork and the beauty of Japanese aesthetics. This piece is a "goushi" made on a potter's wheel using Shigaraki clay. Characters are drawn with black glaze and ceramic resist, then meticulously outlined with gold and silver. The piece is completed through multiple firings, with glaze applied each time, a process that takes considerable time. The Iroha poem gently stands out against the deep black glaze of this lidded vessel. Aligning the characters perfectly is quite challenging due to the differing shrinkage rates of the clay between the lid and the body, making it a rare item with a limited number of finished pieces. When used as a tea caddy, it is best suited for temporary portioning of tea leaves during a tea gathering, rather than for long-term storage. This work reflects Japanese tea culture and aesthetic sensibilities. It makes a thoughtful gift for someone special. You can also enjoy how its character deepens with use. Diameter 6.0cm Height 8.5cm Weight 220g * Not suitable for microwave, dishwasher, oven, cleanser, or nylon scrubbers. * Please understand that while the lid and body fit snugly, this "goushi" is not airtight.