These small, almost weightless chopstick rests are hand made in Kanazawa from kiri (paulownia), a very fast-growing and lightweight tree. Kiri is valued in Japan for its resistance to moisture, heat, and warping. They can also work as pen rests.
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.
Specifications
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.