Bamboo Tea Scoop “Ao-Kaede” — A Zen-Inspired Masterpiece of the Japanese Way of Tea This is not merely a tea scoop — it is a vessel of spirit, aesthetic refinement, and historical continuity within the world of chanoyu (Japanese tea ceremony). Crafted from meticulously aged furudake (ancient bamboo), this chashaku reflects the delicate equilibrium of form, material, and intention. It was shaped under the guidance of acclaimed artisan Okuda Soshun, whose expertise in classical bamboo carving lends the scoop a sense of nobility, serenity, and profound wabi-sabi. The scoop bears the evocative inscription “Ao-Kaede” (“Green Maple”), a poetic seasonal reference to the lush verdure of early summer. Such mei (names) are carefully selected to convey not only seasonal beauty but also an emotional and spiritual resonance — a reflection of the core principles of chanoyu. What elevates this work to an object of exceptional provenance is the hand-inscribed box lid (tomobako), written and signed by Reverend Hashimoto Josho, the esteemed head abbot of Hotoku-ji, a temple of the Rinzai Zen lineage (Daitoku-ji school) — one of the most spiritually and culturally influential traditions in Japan. His handwritten inscription, complete with kaō (personal seal), not only verifies the scoop’s authenticity but endows it with the spiritual authority of Zen. Further adding to its value, the original bamboo case (tomozutsu) bears Hashimoto’s seal (zaiban), an additional mark of ceremonial and spiritual validation rarely seen in modern offerings. ⸻ Crafted by a recognized bamboo artisan (Okuda Soshun) Endorsed and inscribed by a Zen priest of Daitoku-ji lineage (Hashimoto Josho) Poetic seasonal mei (Ao-Kaede) reflecting Japanese aesthetic philosophy Complete set: chashaku, tomozutsu with seal, tomobako with handwritten box inscription and kaō Perfect for use in formal tea gatherings, museum display, or as a high-value collector’s piece • Hand-carved bamboo tea scoop (Chashaku) • Bamboo storage tube with seal (Tomozutsu) • Original wooden box with handwritten inscription and seal (Tomobako) • Certificate-level authenticity by Zen priest ⸻ With its profound connection to Zen, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage, this tea scoop transcends function. It is a true heirloom-quality object, worthy of preservation and admiration across generations.