This new crowdfunding product will appeal to those who want to indulge in their skincare routines and appreciate a traditional Japanese aesthetic.

Here’s something we bet you didn’t know: Kumano, Hiroshima Prefecture, is estimated to be the source of creation for more than 80 percent of traditional Japanese calligraphy and makeup brushes. In fact, these exquisitely crafted brushes are so revered that they are known as “Kumano fude” (fude means “brush”) and were designated an important traditional craft by the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry in 1975. Apparently there are only 22 artisans alive today who meet the qualifications to craft true Kumano brushes.

A product currently being offered on Japanese crowdfunding site Makuake has found a new take on the classic Kumano brush. Known as the Hyaku-nen Brush (“100-year brush”), the brush is paired with a porcelain bowl to make up a unique washing set. Together they’ll help you whip up the frothiest, smoothest possible lather of your favorite face wash. Its name is a nod to the fact that its producer, cosmetics company Sho-Bi, aims to create a quality product that will endure 100 years down the road.

▼ Hyaku-nen brush set

▼ After making a lather using the set. The bubbles are so minuscule you almost can’t see them.

When preparing to make a lather, the brush mixes the soap in a manner similar to a whisk used to make a frothy bowl of matcha during a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. The video below demonstrates how to make your very own luxurious bowl of face wash by mixing a dollop of your favorite foaming cleanser or hard soap with a small amount of water.

▼ Demonstrating the process with foaming cleanser

▼ Demonstrating the process with hard soap

While it might seem like a lot of work to do twice per day, you can actually whip up a rich froth in less than a minute using this particular brush–that’s what makes it such a high-quality tool.

▼ Besides, your skin’s been needing a little pampering, right?

Part of the appeal of the set is that the Kumano brush tip, brush handle, and porcelain bowl are all handmade by master craftspeople from around Japan. First, the brush tip is assembled by an artisan from–where else– Kumano, Hiroshima. It’s made using nylon fibers (not animal hairs).

Second, the brush handle is fashioned and buffed with care by an artisan from Saitama Prefecture from sustainable bamboo.

▼ The polished handle positively glows.

Third, the porcelain bowl is shaped by an artisan from Iwate Prefecture who uses a local kind of red clay.

▼ The red tinge after firing lends a beautiful aesthetic touch.

As of this writing, 63 people have supported the Hyaku-nen brush set on Makuake and the project has already met its desired financial goal. Supporters can reserve the porcelain bowl alone by pledging 3,000 yen (US$28), the Kumano brush alone by pledging 7,000 yen, or the full washing set by pledging 9,000 yen. Only 100 individual copies of the brush and the bowl each are up for grabs (50 standalone and 50 within the full set), so don’t wait to put your name down if this set is something you truly want.

Source: Japaaan
Images: Makuake
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