Beyond bento boxes! This is a special bentwood water dispenser called Mizusashi. The large bucket size ones are specific for tea ceremony use, while this small one can be used to water flower-arrangements. Aside from wooden bento boxes, many unique works seen at ShibataToku stores are designated for tea ceremony and flower ceremony (Ikebana) use.  Practioners frequent the shop to have objects made-to-order.  
 
These items hasn't changed much since its initate use few centuries ago.  And it is the artisan's responsibility to preserve the technique and strict specifications for them. Bentwood craft's origin was deeply rooted in ritual wares for Shinto Shrines as well as traditional tea ceremony.  In fact, unfinish cedar bentwood water container was one of Tea Master Senno Rikyu's favorite!
 
For those who appreciate bentwood craft and Japanese tea ceremony, this would make a unique gift.  A work of art that is also functional. 
 
SHIPPING COST in included when order this unit! Email us if you are ordering more items and see if we can combine shipping to offer free shipping for the entire order.  
 
Made with Japanese Japanese cedar wood, with the iconic cherry tree bark stitches.  This water dispenser (as with all water vessels and sake cups)  is coated with food-safe urethane and it is water-resistant.  
Handmade by Mr. Morita and Ms. Shibata.  Own a piece of unique bentwood craft history, a work of art, from Hakata Fukuoka. 
 
*NOTE:  As with handmade items, you will see artisan's marks on the box.  Some visible signs (blemish) left from the tools is normal.  This is not a factory mass-produced item.  ShibataToku's woodshop uses machines from over 50-60 years ago. Couple of bentwood machines were invented by the early founders as well.  Hence the touch (tactility) is more rustic than items made by modern-day high-speed power tools.  A lot of parts still relies on hand chiseling and trimming.