Chasen No. 104 · Dark Kurotake, 48 Tines · Both

Naturally dark bamboo (kurotake) · black thread · shin form · sturdy, hooked tines · one of a kind

Cut from naturally dark black bamboo (kurotake) in the classic shin form and bound in black thread, with a long thread tassel at the collar. Around 48 sturdy outer tines, each tip hooking firmly inward — a whisk with real backbone, at home kneading a thick koicha yet still able to raise a dense foam on usucha.

Hand-cut and tied from a single piece of bamboo in Takayama, Nara — the district that makes more than 90% of Japan's chasen, where fewer than twenty artisans still practise the craft. From one of four independent makers we work with; out of respect for them, we don't share names or workshops. One of a kind — we have only this piece.

Care: rest on a whisk holder (kusenaoki) to keep its shape, rinse in warm water only, and air-dry. Never soak or machine-wash.