The kensui receives the water used to rinse the bowl and warm the whisk. Also called mizukoboshi, it is the least conspicuous utensil in the room and the one doing the most practical work. Its materials have always been varied, which lets a host adjust the formality and the seasonal feel of an arrangement in small increments.
History
Household water vessels and bathing implements were the first to be adapted, and bronze and sahari alloy vessels established themselves early as the formal types. Rikyu's wabi practice preferred bentwood and bamboo-node forms for their plainer texture. From the Edo period onward, Raku, Shigaraki, and Bizen ceramics were added, alongside new designs to a head family's taste and imported vessels adapted by mitate.
Types
By material: metal (bronze, sahari, silver alloy, moru), ceramic, bentwood, plain wood, basketry, and nanban ware. Bronze vessels carry seven traditional names: bo-no-saki, sashikae, efugo, owakizashi, kanadarai, and others. Formal gatherings call for a metal vessel; lessons and lighter occasions use plain wood or Raku, which are easier to handle.
In practice
The kensui is set to the host's left and is carried in as the procedure begins. Rinsing water is emptied into it so that the tea itself is made with fresh water. Where it is placed and how it is handled differ in detail between schools, and it is among the first utensils a student is taught, precisely because it is so basic.
Sources
- 建水（デジタル大辞泉 / 精選版 日本国語大辞典） / コトバンク
Supports: 建水が「点茶の際、茶碗をすすいだ湯水を捨てる広口の容器」であり、木地の曲物・陶器・銅など多彩な作例があること
About this article
Edited by the operator of Chaen (a one-person operation) / Last updated:
Tea ceremony descriptions can vary by school and source. Where interpretations differ, this glossary avoids definitive claims and focuses on broadly shared understandings. If you notice an error, please let us know viaContact. To learn about our organization, seeAbout Chaen.
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Related terms
- Mizusashi (fresh-water jar)mizusashi
The vessel holding clean water for the kettle and for rinsing; the utensil offering the widest freedom of material and form.
- Chakin (linen cloth)chakin
A small bleached linen cloth used to wipe the tea bowl during a procedure.
- Hishaku (ladle)hishaku
A bamboo ladle for drawing hot water and cold; the utensil handled most often, and the one that shows a host's movement most plainly.
- Kaigu (matched set of four)kaigu
A water jar, waste-water vessel, ladle stand, and lid rest matched in material and design; the summit of formality.