Little sweet cakes (Higashi) are made individually for tea ceremonies, events and shrine offerings. They are shaped into objects of art and symbolism using these hand carved wooden culinary moulds, or 'Kashigata'. The rice flour and sugar confections have been a popular tradition in Japan for more than 300 years. They are each one-of-a-kind hand carvings and are like little art pieces in themselves. Since they are no longer made except as a rarity, they have become quite collectable and hard to find.
This motif is a lotus seed pod. The lotus is revered in Japan for its ability to rise above the dirty, murky waters to bloom into a beautiful pure flower. This process symbolizes attaining enlightenment.
Age: Vintage
Origin: Japan
Material: Wood
Size: 7" x 5" x 2"