Meiboku bowl - Sonobe Sangyo -

Carefully crafted on a lathe, each Meiboku bowl is meticulously shaped, one by one. Its beautifully calculated curves perfectly conform to the hand, offering exceptional comfort. The subtly varying thickness across different areas reveals the artisan's meticulous craftsmanship. The ideal wood thickness, just-right weight, and curves that seemingly cling to the hand embody the various priorities of the craftsmen, creating an indescribable "gentleness" in the Meiboku bowl.

A bowl for everyday use

the Meiboku is durable, comfortable, and pleasant to the touch. A notable feature is that it doesn't become hot when filled with hot items, unlike plastic. It pairs wonderfully with various cuisines, whether Japanese or Western. Its simple design never becomes monotonous, instead changing its character with each dish it holds. The surface is urethane-coated to preserve the wood's texture while ensuring long-term use. It's no wonder it has maintained its popularity for over a decade without changing its form.

Crafted from natural hardwood

the Meiboku bowl cannot be produced endlessly. Excessive production would lead to over-harvesting, making long-term production unsustainable. Considering the future, harvesting is done within reasonable limits, resulting in a limited number of bowls. At our store, stocks may sometimes be depleted, potentially causing a wait of several months. Sonobe Industry's manufacturing is the exact opposite of mass production and mass consumption - it's a way of living in harmony with wood.

Enjoy the changing nature of the wood, and please cherish your Meiboku bowl for years to come.

Available in 3 Wood Types*

*Please note: Each piece features unique wood grain patterns and color variations due to the natural characteristics of the wood.

Cherry)

Keyaki(Zelkova)

Buna(Elm)

■ Product Details

Meiboku bowls are carefully crafted by artisans using fine wood.
These bowls combine excellent feel in the hand, texture on the lips, usability, durability, and reassurance.
They take time to make, the fine wood materials are limited, and they are valuable in many ways.
There are three types: Cherry (Sakura), Zelkova (Keyaki), and Beech (Buna), each with different characteristics.

Meiboku bowls come in three sizes: small, medium, and large. The medium size is standard. The small size can be used for children's bowls. The large size is recommended for use as a serving bowl. Wooden bowls don't get hot when held - wood truly is the best material for bowls.

- Types and Characteristics of Fine Woods -

Cherry (Sakura)

Cherry, a beloved and cherished tree for Japanese people. Its fine, dense, and glossy wood texture reminds one of the beauty of cherry blossoms. Even when shaped, it retains a feminine, gentle texture. Still, it has material strength and makes sturdy, good quality vessels and tools.

Zelkova (Keyaki)

When speaking of Japanese fine woods, zelkova has long been a standard. It's hard, strong, and a reliable good material. It was originally called "Keyakeshi" (outstandingly beautiful) wood, which evolved into "Keyaki." It's said that its kanji became "wood-raise" because it was used for tools and vessels to offer tributes during dignified ceremonies expressing gratitude for nature, abundant harvests, and peaceful days.

Beech (Buna)

A large tree with a good appearance, standing straight with a white trunk. In winter, it quietly protects the mountains, and when young leaves appear, it beautifully sprouts, making the mountains fresh and the surroundings happy. The refreshing white wood texture is perfect for vessels in simple, natural living.

■ Size Feel and Comparison

Meiboku bowls are available in three sizes (small, medium, and large) for each of the three types of wood. "Small" is about the size of a small bowl, perfect for children's rice bowls. "Medium" is about the size of a general soup bowl. Please enjoy your usual miso soup. "Large" isn't quite bowl-sized, but it's about the size of a soup bowl.

If you look closely at the large, medium, and small sizes, you'll notice they have slightly different shapes. The shape is also designed to be most usable and comfortable for each size.

■ Packaging Image

The packaging is a simple white box. It includes the logo of the Good Design Award it received. Gift wrapping will cover this box. *The box may change if you request packaging for multiple items.

■ Precautions Before Purchase

• Each piece of wood has a different expression. Particularly with cherry and zelkova (keyaki), individual differences may be noticeable.
• There may be differences in color, wood grain, and in some products, the wood color may change within a single bowl.
• Since they are handcrafted, there may be subtle differences in size between each piece. We hope you enjoy the essence of one-of-a-kind items.
• The surface finish is urethane coating for longer use. If you're concerned about the smell, placing it in a well-ventilated area for a few days will calm the odor.
• Please "season" the bowl by filling it with lukewarm water before use.
• Depending on the type of wood, there may be a distinctive wood smell. If this bothers you, repeatedly filling the bowl with 90°C water, waiting a while, then rinsing will reduce the smell.

■ Usage Precautions

• Microwave ovens, dishwashers, and dish dryers cannot be used. Using them may cause deformation.
• Direct sunlight, extreme dryness, and high temperatures can deform the wood.
• Pouring boiling water may cause the bowl to warp. *Note: If warped, it will return to shape over time.
• Avoid soaking after use.
• Avoid using cleansers or scrubbing with force.