Beyond its gleaming skyscrapers and futuristic technology, Japan is still very much a country known for its traditional craftsmanship and meticulous workmanship. This is especially evident in award-winning brands such as Artisan, a metalware brand based in Tsubame City, Niigata Prefecture.
Located amidst the coastal plains of central Niigata, Tsubame City has been a production powerhouse for metal processing ever since the Edo Period (1603-1868). Drawing from its long heritage of metal works, Artisan produces an eye-catching selection of stainless steel homeware that would be the pride of place in any household.
This ORI-EN collection of homeware is part of a collaboration with Momentum Factory Orii, a metal plating manufacturer that is known for their timeless technique of colouring metals. Each piece is painstakingly coloured by a skilled craftsman, using a proprietary colouring technique that is similar to what is done on the surfaces of Buddhist statues made of copper. This involves deft handling of heat and chemicals to ensure a harmonious balance of subtle and intense colours. The result? A rich and vividly-hued end-product that highlights the inherent beauty of metal. What’s more, every piece is meticulously coloured by hand so you get a one-of-a-kind piece every time.
Artisan has been honoured by OMOTENASHI Selection, which is a prestigious award that aims to showcase the creativity and ingenuity of Japanese-made products and services.
Here are three must-haves in your home:
Japanese Teapot
Whether you are in need of a calming cup of floral tea or are craving for the earthy flavours of Japanese green tea, this beautiful teapot will check all your boxes. Featuring a unique mottled pattern, this hardy teapot is unlike porcelain or glass and will not crack or break. Best paired with a matching set of tea canisters.
Double Wall Tokkuri (Sake flask)
This tokkuri sake flask is a study in both form and function. Beyond its classical beauty, the flask features a “double-wall structure” that suppresses heat conduction between the poured liquor and air. What this means is if you have cold sake, it will remain cold and water droplets will not form on the surface. When you’re enjoying hot sake, your drink will remain at a toasty temperature and not turn cool.
Double Wall Sake Cup
As the perfect complement to your sake flask, these sake cups feature the same “double-wall structure” that helps retain the temperature of your favourite tipple. Get the whole set and wow your guests with these elegant and exquisitely-made drinkware. Kanpai!
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