This is an antique tea sieve made of bamboo.

Today, sieves are commonly made with wire or stainless steel, but in the past they were crafted from bamboo and rattan.

After tea leaves were harvested, steamed, rolled, and then dried, they became aracha (coarse tea).
At this stage, tea sieves like this were used to sort the leaves by size.
Also known as cha-dōshi (tea strainer),
they were made more finely and carefully than grain sieves such as those used for rice or wheat.

The typical form had a square base with a round mouth.
Depending on the fineness of the weave—from coarse No.1 to fine No.16—they were used for different teas,
ranging from bancha and sencha to gyokuro and matcha.

This piece is thought to date from the post–World War II period.

There are some breaks along the rim and base, as well as stains from age,
so it is better suited for display or interior use rather than for preparing tea.

Even today, some tea merchants say that such sieves remain indispensable tools.
Please enjoy the fine and delicate woven pattern that is unique to a tea sieve.

Please note:
This item ships from Japan.
As the buyer, you are responsible for any import duties, customs fees, or local taxes that may be charged in your country.
These costs are not included in the item price or shipping cost.
Please check with your local customs authority if you are unsure about any potential charges before placing your order.