Confectionery Bowl “Tombo” – A Symbol of Light and Victory

This delicate black Urushi lacquer bowl combines timeless craftsmanship with deep-rooted Japanese symbolism. Floating on the glossy lid is a stylized dragonfly (Tombo in Japanese) – carefully hand-painted and adorned with real gold.

In Japanese culture, the dragonfly has been considered a good luck charm for centuries: a symbol of transformation, clarity, and fearlessness. Among the Samurai, it was especially revered as a symbol of victory – for a dragonfly never flies backward.

The bowl’s round shape and deep black finish provide the perfect stage for sweets, dried fruits, or other special treats – adding a touch of elegance and meaning. Whether as a refined centerpiece in a tearoom or a gift with symbolic power, the “Tombo” bowl unites aesthetics, tradition, and craftsmanship in its most perfect form.

From Kanazawa (Ishikawa Prefecture)

Kanazawa is located in Ishikawa Prefecture on the west coast of Honshu, about two hours from Tokyo by Shinkansen. The name literally means “golden marsh” and stems from a legend that gold flakes were once found in a potato field.

Since the 16th century, Kanazawa was the seat of the Maeda lords, which led to a flourishing period as a cultural and political center of the region. The city was well fortified, yet also rich in temples and gardens—most notably Kenroku-en, one of the “Three Great Gardens of Japan.”