A Traditional Sweets Hand Carved Wooden Mold: Probably Young Ginger

early twentieth century
1 1/4" x 14" x 1 3/4", 3 cm x 35.5 cm x 4.5 cm

This is a kashigata or a hand carved wood mold that is used to make hand-made, traditional Japanese sweets or kashi.

There are two carved impressions on this mold, each one showing a fairly unusual image, that of myoga or young ginger buds.

In nicely used condition, this charming, traditional confectionary tool can still be put to good use. Note the faint writing on the reverse side, shown in detail on the last photo.