New Work: Henkei- Shibori Iron Kettle

Since iron is harder than gold, silver, and other metals, it is said that it is a difficult material to create a hammered kettle from. But with a considerable amount of time and labour, it is possible to create this work.

However you look at this work, it is beautiful. Traces of the hammered pattern give it warmth, and its smooth, curved mouth draws out the flavour. This effect can only be created from squeezing one sheet of iron.

There is nothing which our predecessors came up with that modern people cannot also do. However, a variety of things can now be alleviated by relying on machines. But by struggling to create one work using traditional methods, it is possible to convey the feelings of our predecessors in the present day, and feel joy knowing that some things cannot be changed.

Visit this work’s page here.

New Work: Hand-Carved Kettle - Chrysanthemum

Do you know the word ‘wabori’?

Wabori is a carving technique to make sculptures, and has been passed down since ancient times in Japan. However, nowadays it is hardly used. Instead, laser engraving is becoming popular.

But Unzan, one of Kyoto ZUIHODO’s artisans, does not rely on machines. He has inherited his techniques from the past, and uses them to create beautiful and delicate works. One of his works is the chrysanthemum hand-carved kettle.

In Japan, the chrysanthemum is a noble flower used in many places, including on silver teapots. Making works with a machine never matches the fineness of making them by hand, or conveys the passion which the artists put into them.

The Chrysanthemum hand-carved kettlejoined the lineup of Kyoto ZUIHODO’s works in 2018. Please make sure to look out for it.

Visit this work’s page here.