This company origins in the Aomori area where the world heritage Shirakami beech mountains are located to make this exquisite bowl. A paper-thin (1/25") sheet of beech wood is cut into 2/5" and 4/5" wide strips which are COILED into a certain size. Then the craftsman pushes it out using a yunomi cup to make this natural bowl form. This simple technique permits stunning shape that are impossible to achieve in other wood. This is an environmentally friendly technique and there is no waste of wood. Water resistant. Wash with neutral detergent. Not recommend to use a dishwasher.