The Ichishina company is based in Ise, Japan. Ichishina uses the best local materials creating new and exciting functional designs.  The chopstick rest and plate is a smart way to offer seasonings, dipping sauces, or small appetizers with a place for your chopstick to rest, making it a beautiful table setting. The copper will darken as the metal oxides when it reacts to the air and natural oils on the skin.