Futaoki (Bamboo Lid Rest)

In the Japanese tea ceremony, every utensil has a precise purpose and place. The futaoki is a small but essential implement used to support the lid of the kettle (kama) or the ladle (hishaku) during the preparation of tea. When the kettle lid is removed or the ladle needs to be set aside, it is placed carefully upon the futaoki, ensuring the host maintains both cleanliness and correct form throughout the ceremony.

The futaoki allows the host to move gracefully between steps without placing utensils directly on the tatami or tray. Its presence ensures both practicality and adherence to centuries-old etiquette. For practitioners of tea ceremony, a futaoki is not merely an accessory but a necessary tool that supports the flow and precision of the ritual.