jaste

Jaste refers to a specific type of Japanese tea ceremony utensil. Primarily, it denotes a decorative stand or holder used for displaying and organizing various tea ceremony items. These items can include a tea caddy (natsume), a whisk (chasen), a tea scoop (chashaku), and sometimes even a small bowl. Jaste are often crafted from wood, bamboo, or metal, and their design can range from simple and functional to highly ornate and artistic, reflecting the aesthetic principles of the Japanese tea ceremony, known as Chanoyu.

The purpose of a jaste is not merely utilitarian; it contributes to the overall visual harmony and presentation of the tea ceremony space. The arrangement of items on the jaste can be a deliberate part of the ceremony, chosen by the host to evoke a particular season, mood, or theme. While the term is most commonly associated with tea ceremony equipment, similar stands or holders for displaying various objects can be found in other Japanese art forms and domestic settings. The craftsmanship of a jaste often highlights the skill of the artisan, with attention paid to material selection, joinery, and finishing.