Artisan Japanese Champagne Cooler – A Statement Piece by Nakagawa Wood Crafts

Ancient Craft, Modern Design

The craft of making wooden buckets was introduced to Japan from China during the Muromachi period, around 700 years ago. Nakagawa Wood Crafts continues this legacy, creating exquisite whitewood pieces such as sushi tubs and rice containers (ohitsu) using traditional techniques passed down through generations.

The Vision of Shuji Nakagawa

In 2003, Shuji Nakagawa, the third-generation master craftsman, opened his atelier on the shores of Lake Biwa. Since then, he has been redefining Japanese woodwork with designs that blend heritage and modernity. One of his signature works is the Wave champagne cooler—an elegant fusion of form and function, which in 2010 was endorsed by a world-renowned champagne house. It has since received acclaim both in Japan and abroad.

Crafted with Precision and Ingenuity

Wave is the result of meticulous craftsmanship and modern design thinking. Using computer-aided design (CAD), approximately 15 individual boards are cut, shaved, and precisely joined together—without the use of glue or nails. Each cooler takes two full days to complete. A hoop placed at the bottom serves as a fulcrum: the outward pressure from the base transforms into a tightening force at the top. A distinctive feature of this cooler is the polygonal shape of the hoop.

Structural Beauty Rooted in Geometry

While most wooden buckets are traditionally round—following the principles of arch construction—Wave introduces a unique polygonal structure based on the same architectural logic. A polygon is treated as a set of overlapping circles of varying sizes. By aligning the centers of adjacent circles along a straight line, structural stability is achieved. What may appear to be an intuitive and fluid shape is actually the result of precise calculations and thoughtful engineering.

A Vessel That Inspires Imagination

Custom-made versions in triangular, square, or pentagonal shapes are also available. It’s up to you to decide how to use it—whether for champagne or something else entirely. This vessel invites your imagination to redefine its purpose.

"WAVE" series

○Specifications

• Size (Triangle): 285 × 180 × height 232 mm
• Size (Square): 275 × 255 × height 232 mm
• Size (Pentagon): 260 × 240 × height 232 mm
• Materials: yew plum pine, nickel silver and brass

○Shipping

• This product is made to order. Shipping will be within 3 months.
• Shipping fee is included in the product price.