Chasen No. 105 · Red-Toned Dark, 56 Tines · Usucha

Naturally dark, red-toned bamboo · black thread · fine, curled bell · one of a kind

The warm mahogany-red cast of this bamboo sets it apart. Around 56 fine outer tines flare into a wide bell and curl inward at the tips, bound in black thread — a chasen (matcha whisk) made to whip a silky, even foam on thin matcha (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.