This is a 100% pure tin paperweight, a reproduction of Tokugawa Ieyasu's armor, "Kindami Gusoku."
With the cooperation of Kunozan Toshogu Shrine in Shizuoka City, where Tokugawa Ieyasu is enshrined, a prototype of the "Kindami Gusoku," a national important cultural property, was created and carefully cast by skilled craftsmen. Furthermore, the same technique used on the actual "Kindami Gusoku" is applied to the surface. You can choose between two types for this product: "edge-attached gold leaf" or "gold plating."
In addition, from the perspective of cultural property preservation, 30% of the sales of this product will be donated to Kunozan Toshogu Shrine.
<Please read before purchasing>
*As this product is handmade, there may be individual differences in the gold color and surface finish.
*Strong impacts such as dropping, scratching, or touching with sharp objects may cause deformation or peeling of the gold leaf.
*This product has sharp parts and is heavy, so please handle it with extreme care. Also, to prevent injuries and accidents, please use and store it out of reach of small children.
Regarding handling
size
Dimensions: Height 105mm, Depth 45mm, Width 48mm *Both weight and dimensions vary between individual pieces.
Specifications
Thoughts behind this product
The handcrafted work of artisans, imbued with soul
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is tin (suzu)?
Tin — *suzu* in Japanese — is one of those metals that's been quietly part of daily life for a long time. It has a soft silver-white sheen, it doesn't rust easily, and it's non-toxic, which is why it's been used for tableware and sake cups for centuries.
Two things make tin a little special. It's a very good conductor of heat, and it has a subtle ion effect on whatever you pour into it. Tea, beer, and sake all seem to soften — the rough edges smooth out, and cold drinks stay cold longer. Some people even keep cut flowers in a tin vase, since tin helps keep the water fresh.
One thing to know: because tin conducts heat so quickly, it's not the right choice for hot drinks.
How do you take care of tin?
Everyday care
- Wash soon after use. Leaving liquids sitting in tin is the main cause of discoloration. A mild dish soap and a soft sponge are all you need.
- Dry it well. Water left on the surface can cause clouding or stains, so wipe with a soft cloth right after washing.
If smells or flavors linger
Dissolve a small spoonful of baking soda in lukewarm water and let the piece soak for a short while. Then wash as usual and dry thoroughly.
If the surface clouds or darkens
A little change over time is part of tin's character — we'd usually leave it. But if it really bothers you, make a paste of baking soda and water and polish gently with a soft cloth. No scrubbing, no metal polish.
Can I put tin in the microwave or the dishwasher?
Short answer: no to both.
Tin is a metal, so the microwave is out. And tin is soft enough that we don't recommend the dishwasher either — the high-heat drying cycle can change the surface, and the water pressure plus knocking against other dishes can scratch or even bend a piece out of shape.
A quick hand wash is really all it needs.