Bizen ware maple leaf chopstick rest

These are brand-new Bizen maple-leaf chopstick rests, freshly fired by Koji Nakahara, who studied under Fumio Kawabata and aims to create items that suit modern lifestyles. These new pieces were fired in the Bizen kiln of his mentor, Fumio Kawabata. Based in the major metropolis of Osaka, Nakahara is a unique Bizen ceramicist who crafts tableware commissioned by chefs at various high-end restaurants and ryotei; these chopstick rests reflect his characteristically stylish and practical design. The slightly concave maple-leaf shape allows them to be used not only as chopstick rests but also as small dishes for condiments. With the understated presence characteristic of Bizen ware—the consummate supporting player that enhances everything around it—these pieces will add a touch of color to your everyday dining table. Paper box
Approx. 7.3–7.1 cm x 7.0–6.8 cm; height approx. 2.4–2.2 cm
(As each item is handmade, sizes vary.) Koji Nakahara was born in Osaka Prefecture in 1978. He graduated from the Advanced Course at Nara College of Arts in 2000 and the Bizen Ceramic Center in 2001. That same year, he began studying under Fumio Kawabata, and in 2007, he joined the Kaneshige Ritoen studio. Since then, he has actively exhibited his work at the Japan Traditional Kogei Exhibition and various public competitions. He is currently an associate member of the Japan Kōgei Association.