Since the Japanese character for this tree, 槐 (enju), is written by combining the characters for "tree" and "oni" (demon), it is also known as a demon-warding tree. Its hard and durable wood has historically been used for tokobashira (alcove posts). Additionally, it has been given the auspicious kanji characters "延寿" (enju, meaning longevity) and "縁授" (enju, meaning bestowing good fortune), and has been cherished as a very lucky tree. The shimmering grain, which changes with the angle of the light, is beautiful, and it gradually develops a dark, lustrous sheen with age.
The lower gourd-shaped part of the enju wood uses core material. Although it is not connected to the upper part, it is made from the same wood. It is carefully turned with skilled techniques, ensuring a tight seal.
Diameter: Approximately 6cm
Height: Approximately 11cm to 12cm
※This shichimi dispenser does not come with a box. If you require a box (the white box pictured below), please add it to your cart from here. The box is different from gift wrapping.
Perhaps not essential, but it makes a difference when you have it.
This shichimi dispenser is like a spice we hope you'll add to your dining table.
This lustrous shichimi spice holder, which you'll want to touch every day, is finished by polishing the wood itself.
Because it is finished with the natural wood, you can enjoy the changes in its color and luster as you use it.
This shichimi dispenser, with its natural aesthetic, looks great not only on the dining table but also in prominent spots in the kitchen or dining room.
We offer several shapes, from the classic gourd to unique originals, all showcasing the woodturner's skill in their smooth, beautiful curves. The large opening makes it easy to add shichimi spice, and the narrow dispensing opening is carefully turned with expert craftsmanship. The lid closes securely, so you can place it down with confidence.
Choose your preferred shape, add your favorite spices, and enjoy your meal.
[About Lathe-Turned Products]
We are particular about a finishing technique that involves polishing the wood without applying lacquer or other coatings. This is called "Kiji finish," and it allows you to fully appreciate the beauty of the wood grain, as well as the feel and warmth of the wood. Due to this Kiji finish, the product may slightly expand or contract depending on the season, climate, and the environment in which it is used, which may affect the fit of the lid. Please note that the color tone may differ depending on the shooting conditions and your device screen.
[Care Instructions]
- Occasionally wipe with a soft cloth. Even without a cloth, simply stroking the entire surface with your hands each time you use it is sufficient.
- If water gets on it, wipe it off immediately. (Excluding wiped lacquer products)
- Do not place in direct sunlight or in high-temperature, high-humidity locations.
[Artisan Profile]
Wood Turner Yoshizou Nishiwaki
(Member of the Japan Kijishi Society・Nagano Prefecture Woodcraft Instructor)
Our products begin with the search for raw timber by my predecessor. He searched for wood with landowners in Nagano Prefecture and neighboring prefectures, and the artisan himself felled the trees. While there were many years when we prepared several truckloads of precious wood, large, aged trees have become scarcer each year. Purchasing from the market would be quite expensive, so we carefully craft products from the raw timber left to us by my predecessor.
I feel a sense of mission to appreciate such valuable wood and bring out its maximum beauty.
Kiji craft may seem simple and understated at first glance, but I believe it is a job that can convey the proof that a tree lived for decades, even centuries. By carefully curing the raw timber for decades, the wood learns the seasons, and I determine the timing for product creation with my own hands. Perhaps only those who have worked with wood for many years can hear the "voice of the wood."