Tea Case - Usuzumi (OUT OF STOCK)

Ryuji Mitani

• Introduction

  I am an Usuzumi Tea Case. From the outside I'm a striking beauty. Inside, a black so deep it feels like a secret well.

   

• Curator's Notes 

  The name Usuzumi comes from the soft, pale gray color of sumi ink when it’s washed out — a subtle, nuanced tone. But here, the surprise is in the opposite direction. Open the lid of this tea case and you’re met with a black so deep it feels endless, like peering into a well. It’s a striking contrast to the warm, creamy white lacquer you see from the outside. I love that moment of reveal. It reminds me that storing tea is as much about ritual as it is about function. This piece holds its contents with care, whether it’s your favorite tea leaves or something more personal. Each time you lift the lid, it transforms a simple act into something a little more special, like uncovering a hidden treasure that’s just for you.

   

  Usuzumi Tea Case was curated by Stevenson Aung

   

• Designer/Maker 

   

  Maker: Ryuji Mitani

   

  Designer: Ryuji Mitani

   

• Specifications

  Dimensions: 2.6" (w) x 2.6" (l) x 2.6" (h) or 65mm (w) x 65mm (l) x 65mm (h)

   

  Weight:  2.0 oz or 57 g

   

  Materials: Mountain Cherry Wood, Urushi Lacquer

   

• Details
  • Handcrafted in Matsumoto, Japan
    
  • Ryuji Mitani’s signature on the bottom 
    
  • Features a beige lacquer exterior with a contrasting black interior
    
  • Lid glides on seamlessly for a snug, refined fit  
    
  • Food-safe finish
    
  • Do not soak urushi lacquered pieces in water for prolonged periods
    
  • Wash with a soft sponge and mild dish soap
  • Rinse with warm water
    
  • Wipe with a cloth and dry well
    
  • Do not machine dish wash
    
  • Each piece is unique and will have variations  
• Return Policy
  Returns or Exchanges may be done within 14 days from purchase date. We kindly ask that all valid returns must be in unused condition with attached tags and packaging. Nalata Nalata will not accept any returned merchandise without prior written communication and valid Return Authorization Number. Upon inspection and approval, Exchange or Store Credit will be provided, No Refunds. All sale items and discounted merchandise are Final Sale and cannot be returned. Read More