*SHIPPING OPTIONS VARY DEPENDING ON THE DESTINATION, PLEASE SCROLL TO THE END OF THIS LISTING FOR MORE DETAILS.

This listing is for a pair of Mino-ware hashioki chopstick rests made around 20 years ago.  Each piece is moulded to resemble an oni, an oni being a kind of demon or devil regularly depicted in Japanese folklore. Depictions of oni vary but they are usually ogre-like creatures with sharp claws, wild hair, and two long horns growing from their heads. They are pretty much considered humanoid although their skin may be red, green or blue.  On February 3^rd people throw soybeans at oni to drive evil spirits away during the annual Setsubun festival.  Oni themed tableware is quite popular this time of year as is oni decorated teaware. 

Mino-ware refers to pottery produced in what was formerly the old Mino Province, which is modern day Gifu Prefecture. Early examples of Mino-ware were predominantly ash-glazed stoneware pieces. Later however the use of the potter’s wheel, as well as a greater variety of glazes, began to characterize what is often thought to ideally represent Mino pottery today. Larger production kilns like Kozangama in Gifu Prefecture produce wares similar to Imari and Arita-ware. Various other kilns specialize in producing budget priced tableware, along with high end wares for various brand name stores and franchises around the country such as Tachikichi in Kyoto.                                                   

Size

5.1cm (2”) x W.3.7cm (1.4”)                                                                                                     

Condition

They’re in very good condition with no chips or cracks and are an unused item.                  

THESE ARE SHIPPING ESTIMATES BASED ON THE CURRENT GLOBAL SITUATION                                                                 

**Germany, France, Greece, Spain, Poland, Austria, Slovakia, Lithuania, Slovenia:  NO SHIPPING.  Very strict and expensive packaging laws in place and we are not licensed to send products to these countries.  We have no plan to register at this time because the process is in some cases very expensive and complicated, plus each country has its own set of regulations and application process. 

**USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland, Norway: Airmail Small Packet (approx. 15-28 days).  Combined shipping available up to 2kgs for Airmail Small Packet (please send us a message).

**Asia:  Airmail Small Packet (approx. 15-21 days).  Combined shipping available up to 2kgs for Airmail Small Packet (please send us a message).

**Central Asia, Middle East, South Africa, Brazil, Mexico:  EMS Express 10-15 days.

**Russia:  No shipping methods available.