These coasters are made from kiri (paulownia), which has long been valued in Japan for its resistance to moisture, heat and warping.
Kiri craft in Kanazawa is distinctive because the surface of the product is blackened by burning. Burning makes the surface harder, the wood grain appear more prominent, and stains and scratches less visible. But most of all, it creates a warm, smooth, and beautiful surface.
Each coaster has a mark of the maker embossed on the bottom. The set of four coaters are decoratively tied with sanada himo (tightly woven traditional Japanese cotton tape).
Specifications
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Material: Kiri grown in Japan
- 3½” x 3½” x ⅜”
- Color and grain pattern of each coaster may vary.
- Made in Japan
Who Makes It
Founded in 1913, Iwamoto Kiyoshi Shōten is the only remaining workshop in Kanazawa that specializes in kiri craft. Now run by the younger family members, product lines have been updated to be more in line with the modern taste.
