About this Piece
Kibou means “hope, wish, aspiration.” This inspired Sumi-e painting evokes hope for the future and the determination of dreams. Its strong, upright brushstrokes suggest a sense of boldness and strength, the resolve to achieve goals and the belief that wishes come true…

This art piece comes mounted on a wood board with a black border. Every Sumi-e painting is an original by Houso Oguri made exclusively for Unique Japan. She will prepare a piece for you within approximately two weeks upon order confirmation.

About Sumi-e
Throughout its 2000-year long history, Sumi-e began with highly-disciplined monks trained in the art of concentration, clarity, and simplicity. Sumi-e has been held in the highest esteem and became a powerful way to instill the values of Bushido, the Samurai Code of Conduct or Moral Principles.

For the swordsman, composure on the battlefield had its artistic parallel in the calm and tranquility essential before the fearless release of a brush stroke. Embodying the honorable spirit (tamashi) of ancient warrior codes, Sumi-e was a metaphor for the fleeting world of the courageous Samurai swordsman.

The sublime simplicity of Sumi-e paintings convey a sense of serenity and peace like no other art form. Sumi-e, meaning “charcoal drawing”, is an ancient Japanese art that uses ink derived from densely packed charcoal ash from bamboo or pine. Sumi-e paintings typically capture the spirit of the subject, rather than its appearance. This elegant austerity reflects sumi-e’s relationship with the tranquility of Zen Buddhism.

Artist Biography
Oguri-san was born in 1948 and began training in calligraphy at the tender age of six. As a university undergrad, she specialized in the art of Japanese calligraphy. Following her studies, Oguri-san chose to devote her life to perfecting the art of sumi-e (charcoal drawing), inspiring both young and old with her passion and skill.

A trained professor of calligraphy, Oguri-san also teaches the ancient Japanese art form of ink derived from densely packed charcoal ash. Not only do her art pieces express Zen and calm, but anyone fortunate enough to speak with Oguri-san and share her life experiences also feels a warm and immediate sense of peace.

Her work has appeared in numerous private collections in Japan, and most recently in the Tokyo showroom of exclusive kitchen maker, Poggenpohl.

Special Orders
If you are interested in a custom made piece at most any size in any Japanese kanji, for a special location such as a business reception area, restaurant, school, home, etc. please contact us.

Birth Years: 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007

When a person born in the Year of the Boar has a goal, he or she forges ahead at full throttle. Simply trying is not enough; nothing short of success is acceptable. Simultaneously, Boar people are extremely courteous and are known for their great honesty. They shy away from confrontation, yet harbor strong convictions and will defend them vigorously when warranted. It is often said that a Boar friend is a friend for life, and Boar people choose their friends carefully and frugally. They care deeply for their friends and loved ones. Their vast knowledge and tenacious curiosity makes them interesting people to be around. They are most compatible with Rabbit and Sheep people.

Details:

• The kanji is individually painted and signed by a professional sumi-e calligraphy artist.
• Sumi-e, meaning “charcoal drawing” is an ancient Japanese artform that uses ink derived from densely packed charcoal ash from bamboo or pine.
• Superb gift for a meaningful friend or loved one
• Durable bamboo that will last for many, many years
• Peaceful message that could be hung in any room of the house, especially an entrance way
• Please hang away from direct sunlight

Height: 60cm (23.6″) ; Width: 34cm (13.4″)

Bamboo Craftsman: Mr. Tanaka

Sumi-e Artist: Ms. Oguri

SPECIAL SHIPPING OFFER!

For a limited time, pay just one low FLAT-RATE EXPRESS SHIPPING FEE for any number of Bamboo Sumi-e Tapestry products placed in your shopping basket.

*Flat-rate express shipping fees are determined by the destination area.  All shipments on uniquejapan.com come with a track & trace number that we share with you:

• Asia: $10.95
• North America, Central America, Oceania, Middle East, Europe: $12.95
• South America and Africa: $15.95

Birth Years: 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006

People born in the Year of the Dog possess loads of leadership material. They inspire trust and confidence in others thanks to their intelligence, honesty and remarkable loyalty. Secrets and lies are abhorrent to Dog people. Though money is often not their priority in life, they nonetheless tend to accumulate it. People born in the Year of the Dog have the insight to see problems that others miss and use their stubborn tenacity to solve them. They are most compatible with Horses, Rabbits and Tigers.

Details:

• The kanji is individually painted and signed by a professional sumi-e calligraphy artist.
• Sumi-e, meaning “charcoal drawing” is an ancient Japanese artform that uses ink derived from densely packed charcoal ash from bamboo or pine.
• Superb gift for a meaningful friend or loved one
• Durable bamboo that will last for many, many years
• Peaceful message that could be hung in any room of the house, especially an entrance way
• Please hang away from direct sunlight

Height: 60cm (23.6″) ; Width: 34cm (13.4″)

Bamboo Craftsman: Mr. Tanaka

Sumi-e Artist: Ms. Oguri

SPECIAL SHIPPING OFFER!

For a limited time, pay just one low FLAT-RATE EXPRESS SHIPPING FEE for any number of Bamboo Sumi-e Tapestry products placed in your shopping basket.

*Flat-rate express shipping fees are determined by the destination area.  All shipments on uniquejapan.com come with a track & trace number that we share with you:

• Asia: $10.95
• North America, Central America, Oceania, Middle East, Europe: $12.95
• South America and Africa: $15.95

Birth Years: 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004

People born in the Year of the Monkey are masters of invention. They tend to see problems from angles other people cannot, and use their ingenuity to their benefit. They have a thirst for knowledge which helps them excel in many different fields. Their will is strong. Monkeys are people of action; they do not wait around for others to get the job started. A person born in the Year of the Monkey often possesses an excellent memory and puts it to use in sound decision making. They are most compatible with Dragons and Rats.

Details:

• The kanji is individually painted and signed by a professional sumi-e calligraphy artist.
• Sumi-e, meaning “charcoal drawing” is an ancient Japanese artform that uses ink derived from densely packed charcoal ash from bamboo or pine.
• Superb gift for a meaningful friend or loved one
• Durable bamboo that will last for many, many years
• Peaceful message that could be hung in any room of the house, especially an entrance way
• Please hang away from direct sunlight

Height: 60cm (23.6″) ; Width: 34cm (13.4″)

Bamboo Craftsman: Mr. Tanaka

Sumi-e Artist: Ms. Oguri

SPECIAL SHIPPING OFFER!

For a limited time, pay just one low FLAT-RATE EXPRESS SHIPPING FEE for any number of Bamboo Sumi-e Tapestry products placed in your shopping basket.

*Flat-rate express shipping fees are determined by the destination area.  All shipments on uniquejapan.com come with a track & trace number that we share with you:

• Asia: $10.95
• North America, Central America, Oceania, Middle East, Europe: $12.95
• South America and Africa: $15.95

Birth Years: 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004
People born in the Year of the Monkey are masters of invention. They tend to see problems from angles other people cannot, and use their ingenuity to their benefit. They have a thirst for knowledge which helps them excel in many different fields. Their will is strong. Monkeys are people of action; they do not wait around for others to get the job started. A person born in the Year of the Monkey often possesses an excellent memory and puts it to use in sound decision making. They are most compatible with Dragons and Rats.

Details:

• The kanji is individually painted and signed by a professional sumi-e calligraphy artist.
• Sumi-e, meaning “charcoal drawing” is an ancient Japanese artform that uses ink derived from densely packed charcoal ash from bamboo or pine.
• Superb gift for a meaningful friend or loved one
• Durable bamboo that will last for many, many years
• Peaceful message that could be hung in any room of the house, especially an entrance way
• Please hang away from direct sunlight

Height: 60cm (23.6″) ; Width: 34cm (13.4″)
Bamboo Craftsman: Mr. Tanaka
Sumi-e Artist: Ms. Oguri

SPECIAL SHIPPING OFFER!
For a limited time, pay just one low FLAT-RATE EXPRESS SHIPPING FEE for any number of Bamboo Sumi-e Tapestry products placed in your shopping basket.

*Flat-rate express shipping fees are determined by the destination area.  All shipments on uniquejapan.com come with a track & trace number that we share with you:

• Asia: $10.95
• North America, Central America, Oceania, Middle East, Europe: $12.95
• South America and Africa: $15.95

Birth Years: 1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003

People born in the Year of the Ram possess the intriguing duality of shyness and talent for the arts. They are driven by a quest for knowledge; the mysteries of life and faith are often on their mind. They are passionate about what they believe in and find a multitude of ways to articulate their convictions, not always simply through speech. Ram people work hard at their craft and, though their skills often provide them with a comfortable living, they do not harbor a great need or desire for wealth. They are wise and compassionate and people are drawn to them for their tenderness. They are most compatible with Horses, Rabbits and Boars.

Details:

• The kanji is individually painted and signed by a professional sumi-e calligraphy artist.
• Sumi-e, meaning “charcoal drawing” is an ancient Japanese artform that uses ink derived from densely packed charcoal ash from bamboo or pine.
• Superb gift for a meaningful friend or loved one
• Durable bamboo that will last for many, many years
• Peaceful message that could be hung in any room of the house, especially an entrance way
• Please hang away from direct sunlight

Height: 60cm (23.6″) ; Width: 34cm (13.4″)

Bamboo Craftsman: Mr. Tanaka

Sumi-e Artist: Ms. Oguri

SPECIAL SHIPPING OFFER!

For a limited time, pay just one low FLAT-RATE EXPRESS SHIPPING FEE for any number of Bamboo Sumi-e Tapestry products placed in your shopping basket.

*Flat-rate express shipping fees are determined by the destination area.  All shipments on uniquejapan.com come with a track & trace number that we share with you:

• Asia: $10.95
• North America, Central America, Oceania, Middle East, Europe: $12.95
• South America and Africa: $15.95

Birth Years: 1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002

People born in the Year of the Horse are independent-minded and find much success in relying on themselves. Perhaps this is why so many are good with their hands. Horse people also tend to be extremely popular among their peers. In turn, Horse people enjoy the charms of the opposite sex. They are wise, talented, and take pride in hard work. Smart with their money, Horse people are also insightful. Their general cheerfulness makes them a pleasure to be around. Horse people can often be found among large crowds, enjoying entertainment in a multitude of forms. They are most compatible with people born in the Year of the Ram, Dog and Tiger.

Details:

• The kanji is individually painted and signed by a professional sumi-e calligraphy artist.
• Sumi-e, meaning “charcoal drawing” is an ancient Japanese artform that uses ink derived from densely packed charcoal ash from bamboo or pine.
• Superb gift for a meaningful friend or loved one
• Durable bamboo that will last for many, many years
• Peaceful message that could be hung in any room of the house, especially an entrance way
• Please hang away from direct sunlight

Height: 60cm (23.6″) ; Width: 34cm (13.4″)

Bamboo Craftsman: Mr. Tanaka

Sumi-e Artist: Ms. Oguri

SPECIAL SHIPPING OFFER!

For a limited time, pay just one low FLAT-RATE EXPRESS SHIPPING FEE for any number of Bamboo Sumi-e Tapestry products placed in your shopping basket.

*Flat-rate express shipping fees are determined by the destination area.  All shipments on uniquejapan.com come with a track & trace number that we share with you:

• Asia: $10.95
• North America, Central America, Oceania, Middle East, Europe: $12.95
• South America and Africa: $15.95

Birth Years: 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001

Wise and determined, people born in the Year of the Snake let their actions speak for them. Failure is not an option for Snake people. They are full of passion and intensity that belies their outward cool. Extremely self-reliant, Snake people also have great sympathy for the less fortunate and find ways to help as much as they can. They are not only smart with their money, but often lucky as well. They are also generally physically attractive and command lots of attention. Snake people are most compatible with people born in the Year of the Ox and Rooster.

Details:

• The kanji is individually painted and signed by a professional sumi-e calligraphy artist.
• Sumi-e, meaning “charcoal drawing” is an ancient Japanese artform that uses ink derived from densely packed charcoal ash from bamboo or pine.
• Superb gift for a meaningful friend or loved one
• Durable bamboo that will last for many, many years
• Peaceful message that could be hung in any room of the house, especially an entrance way
• Please hang away from direct sunlight

Height: 60cm (23.6″) ; Width: 34cm (13.4″)

Bamboo Craftsman: Mr. Tanaka

Sumi-e Artist: Ms. Oguri

SPECIAL SHIPPING OFFER!

For a limited time, pay just one low FLAT-RATE EXPRESS SHIPPING FEE for any number of Bamboo Sumi-e Tapestry products placed in your shopping basket.

*Flat-rate express shipping fees are determined by the destination area.  All shipments on uniquejapan.com come with a track & trace number that we share with you:

• Asia: $10.95
• North America, Central America, Oceania, Middle East, Europe: $12.95
• South America and Africa: $15.95

Birth Years: 1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000
Energy abounds for people born in the Year of the Dragon. Vigorous, healthy and fit, Dragon people remain staunchly stubborn in the face of adversity and harness their anger to their advantage. Dragon people are brave and inspire confidence. Their honesty and compassion serve to elevate other people’s esteem for them. They are most compatible with people born in the Year of the Rat, Monkey, Rooster and Snake.

Details:

• The kanji is individually painted and signed by a professional sumi-e calligraphy artist.
• Sumi-e, meaning “charcoal drawing” is an ancient Japanese artform that uses ink derived from densely packed charcoal ash from bamboo or pine.
• Superb gift for a meaningful friend or loved one
• Durable bamboo that will last for many, many years
• Peaceful message that could be hung in any room of the house, especially an entrance way
• Please hang away from direct sunlight

Height: 60cm (23.6″) ; Width: 34cm (13.4″)
Bamboo Craftsman: Mr. Tanaka
Sumi-e Artist: Ms. Oguri

SPECIAL SHIPPING OFFER!
For a limited time, pay just one low FLAT-RATE EXPRESS SHIPPING FEE for any number of Bamboo Sumi-e Tapestry products placed in your shopping basket.

*Flat-rate express shipping fees are determined by the destination area.  All shipments on uniquejapan.com come with a track & trace number that we share with you:

• Asia: $10.95
• North America, Central America, Oceania, Middle East, Europe: $12.95
• South America and Africa: $15.95

Birth Years: 1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999

People born in the Year of the Rabbit are clever, articulate and talented. Many find themselves drawn to Rabbit people and admire them for their virtuosity and trust them for their sound business sense. Rabbit people are kind and conscientious, have excellent taste and are driven by constructive ambition. When it comes to finances, Rabbit people tend to have a golden touch thanks to a combination of cunning and good luck. Despite this, people born in the Year of the Rabbit are not prone to taking chances; they are cautious and wise with their money. They are most compatible with Dogs, Rams, and Boars.

Details:

• The kanji is individually painted and signed by a professional sumi-e calligraphy artist.
• Sumi-e, meaning “charcoal drawing” is an ancient Japanese artform that uses ink derived from densely packed charcoal ash from bamboo or pine.
• Superb gift for a meaningful friend or loved one
• Durable bamboo that will last for many, many years
• Peaceful message that could be hung in any room of the house, especially an entrance way
• Please hang away from direct sunlight

Height: 60cm (23.6″) ; Width: 34cm (13.4″)

Bamboo Craftsman: Mr. Tanaka

Sumi-e Artist: Ms. Oguri

SPECIAL SHIPPING OFFER!

For a limited time, pay just one low FLAT-RATE EXPRESS SHIPPING FEE for any number of Bamboo Sumi-e Tapestry products placed in your shopping basket.

*Flat-rate express shipping fees are determined by the destination area.  All shipments on uniquejapan.com come with a track & trace number that we share with you:

• Asia: $10.95
• North America, Central America, Oceania, Middle East, Europe: $12.95
• South America and Africa: $15.95

Birth Years: 1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010

People born in the Year of the Tiger command great respect. They are deep thinkers and are sensitized to the plight of others, granting them the capacity for sympathy – something the world can always use more of. Tiger people are courageous and suspicious of authority. They have the ability to make sensible snap decisions but most often put their intellectual powers to work for them when it comes to larger issues. People born in the Year of the Tiger have the good fortune of duality: they are both powerful and sensitive, forceful and kind. Tiger people are most compatible with Horses, Dog and Dragons.

Details:

• The kanji is individually painted and signed by a professional sumi-e calligraphy artist.
• Sumi-e, meaning “charcoal drawing” is an ancient Japanese artform that uses ink derived from densely packed charcoal ash from bamboo or pine.
• Superb gift for a meaningful friend or loved one
• Durable bamboo that will last for many, many years
• Peaceful message that could be hung in any room of the house, especially an entrance way
• Please hang away from direct sunlight

Height: 60cm (23.6″) ; Width: 34cm (13.4″)

Bamboo Craftsman: Mr. Tanaka

Sumi-e Artist: Ms. Oguri

SPECIAL SHIPPING OFFER!

For a limited time, pay just one low FLAT-RATE EXPRESS SHIPPING FEE for any number of Bamboo Sumi-e Tapestry products placed in your shopping basket.

*Flat-rate express shipping fees are determined by the destination area.  All shipments on uniquejapan.com come with a track & trace number that we share with you:

• Asia: $10.95
• North America, Central America, Oceania, Middle East, Europe: $12.95
• South America and Africa: $15.95

Birth Years: 1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009

People born in the Year of the Ox are quiet leaders. They say little out loud, but their patience and psychic strength inspire confidence in people around them. When they do speak, Ox people are articulate and persuasive, adding to their allure as leaders. Beneath the surface, they have fierce tempers and incredible stubbornness. Their abhorrence for failure and remarkable tenacity in the face of opposition helps make many Ox people successful. Their easygoing nature and unconventional outlook on life make people born in the Year of the Ox interesting friends to have. They are most compatible with Rat, Snake and Rooster people.

Details:

• The kanji is individually painted and signed by a professional sumi-e calligraphy artist.
• Sumi-e, meaning “charcoal drawing” is an ancient Japanese artform that uses ink derived from densely packed charcoal ash from bamboo or pine.
• Superb gift for a meaningful friend or loved one
• Durable bamboo that will last for many, many years
• Peaceful message that could be hung in any room of the house, especially an entrance way
• Please hang away from direct sunlight

Height: 60cm (23.6″) ; Width: 34cm (13.4″)

Bamboo Craftsman: Mr. Tanaka

Sumi-e Artist: Ms. Oguri

SPECIAL SHIPPING OFFER!

For a limited time, pay just one low FLAT-RATE EXPRESS SHIPPING FEE for any number of Bamboo Sumi-e Tapestry products placed in your shopping basket.

*Flat-rate express shipping fees are determined by the destination area.  All shipments on uniquejapan.com come with a track & trace number that we share with you:

• Asia: $10.95
• North America, Central America, Oceania, Middle East, Europe: $12.95
• South America and Africa: $15.95

Birth Years: 1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008

Charming and attractive to members of the opposite sex, people born in the Year of the Rat are ambitious, successful and careful with their money. Their perfectionist nature helps them to set and achieve goals; Rat people more often than not get what they want. They tend to harness the energy of anger and find ways to use it to their advantage. Gossip is a Rat person’s guilty pleasure. They are most compatible with Monkey, Dragon and Ox People.

Details:

• The kanji is individually painted and signed by a professional sumi-e calligraphy artist.
• Sumi-e, meaning “charcoal drawing” is an ancient Japanese artform that uses ink derived from densely packed charcoal ash from bamboo or pine.
• Superb gift for a meaningful friend or loved one
• Durable bamboo that will last for many, many years
• Peaceful message that could be hung in any room of the house, especially an entrance way
• Please hang away from direct sunlight

Height: 60cm (23.6″) ; Width: 34cm (13.4″)

Bamboo Craftsman: Mr. Tanaka

Sumi-e Artist: Ms. Oguri

SPECIAL SHIPPING OFFER!

For a limited time, pay just one low FLAT-RATE EXPRESS SHIPPING FEE for any number of Bamboo Sumi-e Tapestry products placed in your shopping basket.

*Flat-rate express shipping fees are determined by the destination area.  All shipments on uniquejapan.com come with a track & trace number that we share with you:

• Asia: $10.95
• North America, Central America, Oceania, Middle East, Europe: $12.95
• South America and Africa: $15.95

What makes this tapestry truly special is the message that is written on the white gold-bordered shikishi card placed in the center of the tapestry. The kanji or Japanese character reads “YUJO” meaning “friendship”.

The kanji is individually painted and signed by a professional sumi-e calligraphy artist. Sumi-e, meaning “charcoal drawing” is an ancient Japanese artform that uses ink derived from densely packed charcoal ash from bamboo or pine.

• Superb gift for a meaningful friend
• Durable bamboo that will last for many, many years
• Peaceful message that could be hung in any room of the house, especially an entrance way
• please hang away from direct sunlight
• Height: 60cm (23.6″) ; Width: 34cm (13.4″)

What makes this tapestry truly special is the message that is written on the white gold-bordered shikishi card placed in the center of the tapestry. The kanji or Japanese character reads “TAMASHI” meaning “unconquerable spirit”. At the foundation of TAMASHI is the belief that you are assured victory as long as you do not quit. The famous Japanese proverb “nana korobi ya oki” or “fall seven times – get up eight”, represents this unconquerable spirit or ultimate winning attitude.

The kanji is individually painted and signed by a professional sumi-e calligraphy artist. Sumi-e, meaning “charcoal drawing” is an ancient Japanese artform that uses ink derived from densely packed charcoal ash from bamboo or pine.

• Superb gift or for you to enjoy in your home
• Durable bamboo that will last for many, many years
• Strong, powerful message that could be hung in any room of the house, especially an entrance way
• please hang away from direct sunlight
• Height: 60cm (23.6″) ; Width: 34cm (13.4″)

What makes this tapestry truly special is the message that is written on the white gold-bordered shikishi card placed in the center of the tapestry. The kanji or Japanese character reads “ZEN” meaning “enlightenment through meditation”. For the Japanese practicing ZEN to enrich one’s daily life is to be aware of whatever you are doing at the moment.

The kanji is individually painted and signed by a professional sumi-e calligraphy artist. Sumi-e, meaning “charcoal drawing” is an ancient Japanese artform that uses ink derived from densely packed charcoal ash from bamboo or pine.

• Superb gift or for you to enjoy in your home
• Durable bamboo that will last for many, many years
• Peaceful message that could be hung in any room of the house, especially an entrance way
• please hang away from direct sunlight
• Height: 60cm (23.6″) ; Width: 34cm (13.4″)

What makes this tapestry truly special is the message that is written on the white gold-bordered shikishi card placed in the center of the tapestry. The kanji or Japanese character reads “KOUFUKU” meaning “happiness”.

The kanji is individually painted and signed by a professional sumi-e calligraphy artist. Sumi-e, meaning “charcoal drawing” is an ancient Japanese artform that uses ink derived from densely packed charcoal ash from bamboo or pine.

• Superb gift or for you to enjoy in your home
• Durable bamboo that will last for many, many years
• Peaceful message that could be hung in any room of the house, especially an entrance way
• please hang away from direct sunlight
• Height: 60cm (23.6″) ; Width: 34cm (13.4″)

What makes this beautiful tapestry truly special is the message that is written on the white gold-bordered shikishi card placed in the center of the tapestry. The kanji or Japanese character reads “KOTOBUKI” meaning “celebration”, “good fortune” and “longevity”. This would make a perfect gift for newly weds, someone celebrating a birthday, a school graduation or for a new home.

The kanji is individually painted and signed by a professional sumi-e calligraphy artist. Sumi-e, meaning “charcoal drawing” is an ancient Japanese artform that uses ink derived from densely packed charcoal ash from bamboo or pine.

• Superb gift for a newly wed couple or house-warming present.
• Durable bamboo that will last for many, many years
• Peaceful message that could be hung in any room of the house, especially an entrance way
• please hang away from direct sunlight
• Height: 60cm (23.6″) ; Width: 34cm (13.4″)

What makes this tapestry truly special is the message that is written on the white gold-bordered shikishi card placed in the center of the tapestry. The kanji or Japanese character reads “AI” meaning “love” in Japanese.

The kanji is individually painted and signed by a professional sumi-e calligraphy artist. Sumi-e, meaning “charcoal drawing” is an ancient Japanese artform that uses ink derived from densely packed charcoal ash from bamboo or pine.

• Superb gift for a loved one that will last for many, many years
• Peaceful message that could be hung in any room of the house, especially an entrance way
• Please hang away from direct sunlight
• Height: 60cm (23.6″) ; Width: 34cm (13.4″)

These five beautiful, award-winning* creations are unique in every sense of the word. Originally created as a place-setting for warm face towels (oshibori), they can also be used to serve appetizers of all shapes and sizes. Each oshibori piece is comprised of just one slice of cedar wood, skillfully curved into the shape of a small wave. These will certainly not go unnoticed at the table.

Product details

• * these products were recently given the prestigious “GOOD DESIGN” award for excellence in design and craftsmanship. (www.g-mark.org)
• completely hand-crafted from Akita located in northern Japan
• Each piece: length: 20cm (4.7″) ; width: 8cm (3.1″) ; height: 5.5cm (2.1″)
• lightweight, yet remarkably strong – made to last for years.
• hand-wash with warm water and soap and store in a dry cool place
• do not microwave
• serve appetizers such as marinated salmon, cheese, sweets, etc.
• (sweets not included)

Magewappa is a marvelous 400-year old traditional craft that originated in Odate City in Japan’s northern Akita prefecture. It is painstakingly created by thinly shaving perfectly straight-grain cedar wood, specially planted on the eastern side of the Shirakami Mountains, a present-day World Heritage Natural Resource site. This complex procedure involves boiling the shavings, and repeatedly bending and fastening them together by hand with carefully chosen slices of sakura (Japanese cherry blossom) bark. Only cedar wood that is 100 years old or more can endure this demanding process.

A finished Magewappa creation is remarkably lightweight and bears a naturally faint aroma that magnificently compliments Japanese food and drink – especially sushi and sake. Sushi-bachi plates are further treated with a gorgeous red lacquer to aid preservation and presentation. A true feast for the eyes and a sure conversation-starter when entertaining friends and guests.

Product details

• * these products were recently given the prestigious “GOOD DESIGN” award for excellence in design and craftsmanship. (www.g-mark.org)
• completely hand-crafted from Akita located in northern Japan
• Each piece: length: 20cm (4.7″) ; width: 8cm (3.1″) ; height: 5.5cm (2.1″)
• lightweight, yet remarkably strong – made to last for years.
• hand-wash with warm water and soap and store in a dry cool place
• do not microwave
• serve appetizers such as marinated salmon, cheese, sweets, etc.
• (sweets not included)

Magewappa is a marvelous 400-year old traditional craft that originated in Odate City in Japan’s northern Akita prefecture. It is painstakingly created by thinly shaving perfectly straight-grain cedar wood, specially planted on the eastern side of the Shirakami Mountains, a present-day World Heritage Natural Resource site. This complex procedure involves boiling the shavings, and repeatedly bending and fastening them together by hand with carefully chosen slices of sakura (Japanese cherry blossom) bark. Only cedar wood that is 100 years old or more can endure this demanding process.

A finished Magewappa creation is remarkably lightweight and bears a naturally faint aroma that magnificently compliments Japanese food and drink – especially sushi and sake. Sushi-bachi plates are further treated with a gorgeous red lacquer to aid preservation and presentation. A true feast for the eyes and a sure conversation-starter when entertaining friends and guests.

Product details

• completely hand-crafted from Akita located in northern Japan
• width: 20cm (7.8″) ; depth: 13cm (5.1″) ; height: 4.2cm (1.65″)
• lightweight, yet remarkably strong – made to last for years.
• hand-wash with warm water and soap and store in a dry cool place
• Price is for a set of 10. Wholesale price!
• do not microwave