FUTAGAMI Stationery Tray - Black Kuro-Mura Brass

"Kuro-Mura" is a traditional brass patination technique cultivated by Takaoka cast metal artisans, giving objects an appearance reminiscent of ancient excavated artifacts.

Unlike standard painting or plating, this method does not produce a uniform finish; instead, each piece has a unique expression, creating a warm, antique-like metal texture. Over time, as the piece is used, natural aging enhances its character, deepening its hue and settling into a rich patina similar to raw brass.

The "Kuro-Mura" finish is achieved by applying a lacquer-based pigment mixture, which is then carefully worked into the surface using a brush while applying heat. This process, known as "Ohaguro" rubbing, creates depth and variation in the coloration. This technique has been passed down for generations in Takaoka, traditionally used in crafting Buddhist altar fittings and statues.

"Futagami," a brass foundry founded in the city of Takaoka, Toyama Prefecture, Japan, in 1897, launched "FUTAGAMI," a brass living-ware brand, over 100 years ago. Since then, the company has focused on making elegant and sophisticated brass living-ware intended to age beautifully over the course of a lifetime.

We ship using USPS and UPS, depending on the destination and the products ordered. All shipments include tracking and up to $200 of insurance.

Complimentary Shipping Thresholds:

• USPS Ground Advantage (U.S.): Complimentary on orders over $100.00.
• USPS Priority Mail (U.S.): Complimentary on orders over $250.00.
• UPS International: Complimentary on orders over $350.00.
  • Please note: Duties, taxes, and import fees may apply and are the responsibility of the recipient.

Shipping Times:

• Most items ship within two business days (Monday to Friday, excluding holidays).
• Orders placed by 12 PM Pacific Time often ship the same day.
• We aim to ship on Saturdays whenever possible, but this service is not guaranteed.

Additional Notes: 

• Posters and artwork may ship separately from other items but will be dispatched simultaneously.
  
• While we offer insurance on your shipments, once a package is marked “delivered,” insurance no longer covers theft or loss. Please deliver to secure locations or ensuring someone is available to receive your package. 
• Shipping costs are non-refundable. 

International Orders:

• For international orders, customs duties, taxes, and fees may apply. These are determined by your country and are the responsibility of the recipient.
• We do not ship knives internationally.
• We ship UPS only.

For our full shipping policy, please see shipping policies.

Returns are accepted within 30 days of receipt of your order, provided the merchandise is in its new, unused condition and includes the original packaging. Items that show signs of use, arrive without the original packaging, or received after the 30-day period will not be accepted.

Exceptions:

• Lighters: We cannot accept returns for lighters that have been filled with fluid.
  
• Brass/Copper/Bronze Products: Items that have had their vacuum seal opened or have been handled and exposed to oxidation are considered used and are not eligible for return.
  
• Art, Vintage & Gift Cards: Photographs, posters, gift cards, vintage artwork, vintage items, and "Bygone Goods" products are final sale. 

Refunds to the original payment method will incur a flat $5 restocking fee, which will be deducted from your refund. Returns for store credit or exchanges are not subject to this fee.

For our full return policy, please see return policies.