Japanese Handmade Candles with painted Japanese Zodiacs

Whereas western candles have a thin cotton string, authentic Japanese wicks are made from Japanese paper (washi) wrapped in Igusa grass (used to make tatami matts) and cotton fibers. The candles generate minimal soot, are wind resistant, and provide a soft, warm and gentle light. 

A lot of time and craftsmanship goes into producing each and every candle; There are fifteen different steps, some of which require several cycles. The MATSUI Candle Atelier has been established in 1907 and Mr. Noriaki Matsui is now one of the approximately 20 craftsman in Japan left to master the skill of handmade, traditional warosoku. He exercises particular care in selecting high quality, environmental-friendly raw materials. The Candles are made of Vegetable wax and Japanese paper, and are therefore plant based/vegan. They have the iconic shape of traditional candles called "Ikari" and come in classic Japanese Warosoku candle colors; red and white.