This is a delicate series inspired by tulips that bloom in spring.
This series was also the first set of cutlery Hiro Kashihara gave his wife, which inspired him to start his career as an artist.
The deliberately worn-out design gives the table a calming atmosphere just by being there.
With your favorite novel, a cup of hot coffee, and the sunlight streaming in through the window, you might be able to create some relaxing time just for yourself that will make you sigh in relief.
Tableware Specimens
A body of work in which Hiro Kashihara has sealed the time he has spent continuously engaging with his practice.
The intentionally subdued, aged surface evokes the tactile sensation of making and the memory of the first moment when form came into being.
They stand as “traces” — where emotions and stories have quietly settled and solidified.
These are not merely pieces of cutlery, but presences that preserve time like specimens.
Each piece bears a handwritten label noting the title, material, completion date, and signature — information that could only be recorded at that moment. These details serve as evidence of the time embodied in the work.
Even the act of gazing becomes an experience:
a quiet sensing of the artist’s accumulated thoughts, intensity, and the air that once surrounded the making.
Tableware Specimens are works that invite you to trace back through the artist’s time, and to savor the marks left behind.
Each time your eyes rest upon them in daily life, the layers of memory deepen —
Please enjoy these “specimens of time.”
Artist
Hiro Kashihara
I create small supporting characters that quietly hold up the beauty and deliciousness of the table.
My journey into cutlery making began when my wife, who loves cooking, collected beautiful tableware and cutlery. Wanting to create moments that would make her happy and to offer her beautiful tea times, I began making cutlery myself.
Since 2020, I have been working as a cutlery artist, developing a style based on the concept of “Spoon You Nurture,” using materials such as brass and nickel silver that enhance the enjoyment of aging over time.
Today, I see cutlery as a canvas, creating new works by distilling scenes and moments I find beautiful into simple forms.
The Appeal of Brass
Brass is a material traditionally used in antique tableware.
It is an alloy of copper and zinc, and typically possesses a beautiful golden luster.
In Hiro Kashihara’s work, the surface is heat-treated to create a distinctive matte, amber-toned finish. This process produces subtle shadows and depth, allowing the material’s quiet character to emerge.
The artist handcrafts each piece.
There may be differences in texture, color, shape, and size between the photograph and the piece you receive, but we hope you will enjoy each piece's unique character.
| size |
fork: Approximately 150mm long x 27mm wide x 10mm high (outer box: 190mm long x 65mm wide x 30mm high)
spoon: Approximately 145mm long x 30mm wide x 12mm high (outer box: 190mm long x 65mm wide x 30mm high)
Honey spoon: Approximately 200mm long x 24mm wide x 10mm high (outer box: 240mm long x 65mm wide x 30mm high)
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| weight |
fork: Approximately 9g (including outer box: approximately 57g)
spoon: Approximately 10g (Including outer box: approx. 58g)
Honey spoon: approx. 13g (Including outer box: approx. 72g)
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| material |
Brass (C2801, C2700) *Contains small amounts of copper, silver, and phosphorus at the joints |
| country of origin |
Japan |
| Points to note |
- This item is made of materials that comply with the Food Sanitation Act, but contact with liquids or friction may transfer components to other items. Applying excessive force may also cause damage. We are not responsible for any changes or damage caused by use, or any problems, including health issues. If dirt or liquid gets on the item, gently rinse it, wipe it with a soft cloth, and allow it to dry thoroughly before storing.
- Moisture can cause rust and tarnish, so be sure to drain thoroughly after washing before storing. Be especially careful not to let highly acidic substances adhere to the glass. Moisture in the air can also cause the glass to become cloudy gradually. If this bothers you, polish it with a cloth from time to time.
- Each piece is made by hand. There may be individual differences in length and shape. We have also intentionally created a worn, aged finish. Please note that there may be minor scratches due to the design.
- The tips of the forks and knives are very sharp, so please handle them with care.
- There is a risk of metal allergies. If any abnormalities occur, discontinue use and consult a doctor.
- Hiro Kashihara's works are as delicate as jewelry, so please handle them with care.
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