Kanshitsu box with design in kinma. “Azure wisteria flowers”

Description

• Category
  Lacquerware
• Materials
  Hemp cloth, Gold powder
• Dimensions
  H 14.0 x W 27.0 x D 12.2 cm
• Year of creation
  2023
• Rarity
  Unique

Techniques Used

Dry lacquer

For works of dry lacquer (kanshitsu), first a clay form is created and plaster is used to take a mold of the form. Next, repeated layers of hemp cloth and lacquer are applied to the mold until they are built up to the desired thickness. Finally, the mold is removed and additional coats of lacquer are applied to finish the piece. The hemp fibers are strengthened when the lacquer bonds with them, making dry lacquer an excellent technique for creating sturdy forms with a significant degree of freedom.

Kinma

There are three basic variations of kinma based on the method used for cutting the motifs: line cutting, dot cutting, and a combination of the two. All three types use a special carving blade known as a kinma ken. Originally, kinma only consisted of motifs made of incised lines. However, by combining a variety of colored lacquers and cutting techniques, the art has lent itself to increasingly complex designs.

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Awards received

• The 70th Japan Traditional Kōgei Exhibition (2023)
• Japan Kōgei Association New Artist Award

Comment on Award

I always consider that the scenery created by nature is the best present. One day, I came across a scene of wisteria flowers in the soft sunlight sparkling like glass at the Kannondo in Saijo City, Aichi. In my recent years, I feel that I can show my gratitude towards nature by expressing the scene I was fascinated by in my artwork, and make those who see my artwork feel some kind of warmth or happiness. I am more than grateful for being able to do this work where I can create this cycle, for my environment, and for this award. Thank you very much.
(from the Japan Kōgei Association newsletter)

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