Kyushu Kijima - tortoise general store
Kyushu Kijima - tortoise general store
Kyushu Kijima - tortoise general store
Kyushu Kijima - tortoise general store

Kyushu Kijima

$58.00 Sale Save

Description:
This vintage-style toy made by craftsmen in Kyushu follows woodworking traditions that began 800 years ago. Tortoise is proud to present a special collaboration between these Kyushu craftsmen and Taku Shinomoto, owner of Tortoise. This folkcraft has been renewed with a more contemporary design - with the use of non-toxic milk paint to make each piece an accent in the home.
While more contemporary, each piece is still understated, and respectful of the craft's original simplicity.

Variation:
The wood grain of each piece will vary slightly. The kijima you receive may not be the kijima pictured.

History: 
800 years ago when large family clans battled in Western Japan, two of the largest clans fought famously with each other for superiority and one family lost in the Battle of Dan No Ura. Legend has it the losing family left their territory and wandered deep into Kyushu in search of purpose. To raise their spirits, the remaining family members started traditional woodcraft in the region. Today the area is symbolized by woodcraft like the 'kiguruma', a turned wooden toy on wheels, and the region continues to produce beautiful woodcrafts in the form of boxes, cutting boards, and containers.

 

Measurement:
9.5" L x 4.25" W x 3" H

Materials: 
Wood, non-toxic milk paint

Care Instructions:
Keep dry, clean with a dry cloth. This piece may bleach if placed in direct sunlight.

 

Returns must be made within 2 weeks in original, unused condition with all packaging for either 1. Store credit for the full amount or 2. Refund - minus a 20% restocking fee.  Tortoise does not cover the cost of return shipping or the cost of re-shipping an exchange, and the cost of shipping for returns and exchanges is the responsibility of the customer.