Tanzakubako

I would like to introduce you to the newest member of my teaware family.  This is a tanzakubako, a style of tea chest where utensils are stored for tea ceremony.  This style of tea chest is perfect for storage and display and can also be used to transport with a lid (not pictured) if necessary.  The older chabako are much more transport-friendly and are lined and lidded, opening from the top.  Chabako can range in appearance from raw wood to ornately decorated lacquer.