BWAT CHANY CoffeMug

BWAT CHANY, Made in Ayiti CoffeMug

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"Bwat Chany", in Haitian Creole, refers to a shoe-shine box. In Haiti, shoe shining is a common occupation, particularly in urban areas, where shoe shiners, sometimes called "Joj" as in George and more often just "Chany" as in shine, offer their services to shine and repair shoes, especially for children and teenagers before they go to school, as students need their uniforms to be perfect and clean. The "bwat chany" is an essential tool for these shoe shiners, providing them with a portable and organized way to practice their job.

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A typical Haitian Creole "bwat chany" is a wooden box with compartments and slots designed to hold various shoe shining tools and materials. These may include brushes, shoe shampoo, shoe wax, shining cloths, large needles and string for sewing, a small bell to advertise their presence in the neighborhood, a small stool for the shiner to sit on, and a chair for the client. The box is usually lightweight and sturdy, featuring a handle for easy carrying and for the client to position their foot while shining.

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The shining process consists of shampooing one shoe first and then the other, always with the shampoo brush. Then, wax is usually applied with the fingers, followed by the shining itself, done with brushes and cloths. To signal when it's time for the client to change the foot on the box handle, the shiner taps loudly on the box with the brush.

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The design of a "bwat chany" can vary, with some being plain and functional, while others may be elaborately decorated or personalized by the owner. Very often, if not always, these boxes are made from scrap wood.

• White durable ceramic
• 11 oz (0.33 l)
• Microwave & dishwaher safe
• Rounded corners
• C-handle
• Lead and BPA-free