This is a traditional Kurotake Chasen (Black Bamoo Chasen). Its straight tines produce a well-balanced froth, suitable for both usucha and koicha.  Designed for use in tea ceremony. Handmade by Kazuhiro Hirata in Takayama, Nara Prefecture, Japan
 
Care: Soak tines in hot water for 60 seconds before each use to increase the flexibility of the bamboo. This will increase performance and prolong the life of the chasen.
 
After use, gently rinse all matcha residue off the chasen and place on a stand to dry. If you allow matcha to dry on the tines the tines become brittle and likely to break.