This unique Japanese tea set was crafted by Kusachū (くさ忠) according to the tradition of Sakura Kawa Zaiku (桜皮細工), the traditional Japanese craft in which natural cherry bark is fashioned into decorative and functional objects.
The set consists of an octagonal tea caddy (chazutsu), a matching teapot coaster, and a tea scoop. The warm, golden-brown nuances of the cherry bark, combined with dark wood accents and refined decorations of grape leaves and grape clusters, give the ensemble an elegant and characteristic appearance.
The tea caddy is equipped with a removable outer lid and an inner lid. The original wooden storage box with Japanese calligraphy has also been preserved, giving the set an extra layer of authenticity.
Sakura Kawa Zaiku
Sakura Kawa Zaiku is a traditional Japanese craft primarily associated with Kakunodate in Akita Prefecture, with a history dating back to the eighteenth century. In this sophisticated technique, carefully selected cherry bark is processed and applied to a wooden base. The natural color nuances, subtle luster, and characteristic texture of the bark give each object its own vivid appearance. In this tea set, these qualities are beautifully showcased in the interplay between the lighter cherry bark and the darker wooden parts, which together form a harmonious whole. The octagonal shape of the tea caddy reinforces the geometric character of the design and gives the object a distinctive look.
The grape motif
The decoration consists of grapevines, leaves, and grape clusters. This Japanese motif, budō-mon (葡萄文), is traditionally associated with fertility, abundance, and prosperity. The dark design contrasts beautifully with the golden-brown background of the cherry bark. The refined details of the leaves and grape clusters follow the shape of the octagonal tea caddy, forming a continuous decorative pattern.
The three-piece tea set
The set consists of three matching components:
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Octagonal chazutsu (茶筒): traditional Japanese tea caddy for loose tea.
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Teapot coaster: matching accessory for placing a small Japanese teapot.
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Tea scoop: for measuring loose tea.
The components complement one another in terms of material, color, and design, together forming a harmonious ensemble where functionality and decorative art converge.
The original wooden storage box
The original wooden storage box features Japanese calligraphy and a red seal. The inscriptions refer to Sakura Kawa Zaiku, the tea caddy, and the three-piece composition. The box serves not only as appropriate packaging but also contributes to the presentation and identification of the set. The original labels and calligraphy enhance the authentic Japanese character of the set.
The maker
Kusachū (くさ忠) is the maker of this Japanese tea set, executed in the traditional style of Sakura Kawa Zaiku. The combination of natural cherry bark, dark wood accents, a geometric octagonal shape, and a refined grape motif gives the design its signature appearance. The meticulous finish and the matching accessories align with the Japanese tradition of refined handcrafted utensils.
The original wooden storage box with Japanese calligraphy and product labels completes the presentation of the set.
Object details
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Object: Japanese three-piece tea set
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Maker: Kusachū (くさ忠)
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Japanese name: 桜皮細工 御茶筒 三点セット
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Origin: Japan
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Craft: Sakura Kawa Zaiku – cherry bark work
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Design: octagonal tea caddy with grape motif
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Material: wood with natural cherry bark decoration
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Wood type: keyaki (欅), Japanese zelkova
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Decoration: grapevines, leaves, and grape clusters
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Components: tea caddy, teapot coaster, and tea scoop
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Condition: unused;
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Packaging: original wooden storage box
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Dating: exact production period unknown
Japanese arts and crafts
This octagonal Sakura Kawa Chazutsu by Kusachū unites traditional Japanese cherry bark work, natural materials, and a sophisticated decorative motif. The warm color gradients, the characteristic form, and the graceful grapevines give the set an understated yet distinctive appearance. Together with the matching accessories and the original wooden storage box, this forms an attractive object for enthusiasts of Japanese tea culture, traditional woodwork, and unique collectibles.
