Infusion of modern and tradition in Japanese Urushi Lacquerware Japanese Arts 2018-05-22 | With a history dating back to thousand of years, Urushi is a very traditional art. Yasuhiro Asai is blazing a trail through the Urushi world with his unique vision.Yasuhiro Asai was born in Tottori Prefecture (west coast of Japan) in 1983. His first fascination for Urushi lacquer crafts started in high school. In 2004 he entered the University of Toyama Takaoka National College majoring Urushi lacquer techniques in the Urushi lacquer craft course. After graduating in 2005, he began his studies under Murose Kazumi who is a holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property of Japan, in order to master the Urushi lacquer craft. In 2015 he was awarded with the Commissioner Award of the Agency for Cultural Affairs during the 32nd Traditional Japanese Urushi lacquer Exhibition.Despite being only 35 years of age, Yasuhiro Asai has honed his skill of Urushi art to an advanced level. Without rejecting the works and traditional of many Urushi master craftsmen before him, Yasahiro has created a unique vision for his Urushi lacquerware. Instead following in the footstep of other Urushi masters in depicting mainly nature or folklore, Yasuhiro turns to the world around him for inspiration. This modern world of towering skyscrapers and boundless horizon serves as the background to his Urushi work. The focal point of his work - the crescent moon - requires not only a keen eye to capture the ""ki"" of the scene but the skills to reflect that transcendent beauty in to Urushi lacquerware. Utilizing the Urushi to achieve the desired consistency required is only the beginning to Yasahiro's work. To properly capture the essence of the crescent moon, Yasuhiro also need to employ the use of Raden art, an advanced Urushi technique. Grafting thin slices of Raden to the base Urushi requires extreme focus and skill. Witnessing the complete work that Yasuhiro has poured his heart, one can understand the drive and motivation he must have. It is not a surprise that the relatively young age of 35, Yasuhiro Asai has been able to establish his own place among the world of Urushi art.Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, Yasuhiro Asai.
How Its Made - The Wooden Steps of Geta - Japanese Traditional Art Japanese Arts 2018-09-19 | Just like Kimono, which is famously known for it beauty and still well-used in the daily life of every Japanese. Beneath those beautiful layer also lies another beauty- the Geta, Japanese wooden footwear.There are many things that can made a Geta, what is it. From the quality of wood to the finishing process of polishing. In this video, we focus on the process rather than the finishing product. The video focus on how the artisan select his wood and how to store them until the wood is ready to be process.Then the careful grinding and trimming on the wood pieces. After the artisan got the 2 pieces of even wood, he then cut a whole for the strings. Each steps is carefully watched by a higher supervisor.Onto the last step, which is to sand them and press down onto the Geta to create a shape that hold on to the feet- it also polish the wood. Have you ever worn a Geta? How does it feel? Please let me know your experiences in the comment section below!Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, 明日への扉 by アットホーム
A Mouth-watering Art - Water Frog and Goldfish Candy - Japanese Traditional Art Japanese Arts 2018-08-29 | Wagashi - a type of Japanese traditional Art that focus around the beauty in the way food is represented. This video will focus on how the artisans can transform a piece of sugar to life.Through the quick yet accurate hand of the artisan, using only a piece of scissor and a piece of softened sugar, they are able to turn them alive into animal-shaped masterpieces.The in the beginning of the video, the artist soften the sugar and make them opaque by continuosly mix them together by 2 piece of chopsticks and start to shape them using a scissor. The process continues until the piece of sugar hardened and ready to be transfer to the next station for the final step- coloring.Another artisans will carefully paint on the details of these animals to give them a more realistic look. Most people worries that the candies cannot be eaten as there are paints on them. However, these colors are food coloring and is 100% safe to consume. Will you eat these cute animal-shaped candies? Let me know in the comment below!Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, Travel Thirsty
A Mouth-watering Art - Shiba Dog and Cat Candy - Japanese Traditional Art Japanese Arts 2018-08-22 | Wagashi - a type of Japanese traditional Art that focus around the beauty in the way food is represented. This video will focus on how the artisans can transform a piece of sugar to life.Through the quick yet accurate hand of the artisan, using only a piece of scissor and a piece of softened sugar, they are able to turn them alive into animal-shaped masterpieces.The in the beginning of the video, the artist soften the sugar and make them opaque by continuosly mix them together by 2 piece of chopsticks and start to shape them using a scissor. The process continues until the piece of sugar hardened and ready to be transfer to the next station for the final step- coloring.Another artisans will carefully paint on the details of these animals to give them a more realistic look. Most people worries that the candies cannot be eaten as there are paints on them. However, these colors are food coloring and is 100% safe to consume. Will you eat these cute animal-shaped candies? Let me know in the comment below!Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, Travel Thirsty
Modern touches Tradition - Maki-e Goldfish on Iphone Case - Japanese Traditional Art Japanese Arts 2018-08-20 | Oftenly, people said that modern and tradition clashed when try to combine. However, here you can see a wonderful application of mesmerizing Maki-e art into the well-known Iphone's case. In this video, you can see the many layers of the Maki-e paint is being painted. From the first faint dark paint to indicates the shape of the art that will later on be painted to the final steps is a wonderful journey that I am glad to show you.In the first step, the artisan draw on a small piece of paper as draft; after making sure that the image is as they wanted, a light Urushi paint is painted over the draft paper and applied softly to the surface of the phone's case. This step ehlps the artisan to paint the Urushi pant on correctly as well as exactly the same as the design that they would like originally. Then various of Maki-e lacquer is painted on afterward, some with details (eyes, fins, gold dust,etc.) added in the process. The final part is to polish the piece and the Goldfish is alive.Have you ever have any art piece that combine the two aspect (tradition and modern) or what are your thoughs on these kind of combinations? Let me know in the comment below!Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, noto char
Japanese Bamboo Chopstick - Final Part - Japanese Traditional Art Japanese Arts 2018-08-17 | Bamboo chopstick have been around the Japanese culture for decades and is still widely used within today.Even though there are more alternatives span from design, prices, materials, bamboo woods is still one of many materials that remains the Japanese's favorite.In this episode, we take a closer look on how each stopstick is carefully handle.Urushi- a Japanese tradition substance from the Urushi tree that gives woodenware its shiny warm color, is used in this process to give the chopstick a warm and luxurious feels. Then like most Urushi lacquerware process, it is then sanded down one more time for the Urushi paint to merge onto the chopstick layer. This progress can be repeated up to a hundred times for the chopsticks to have its final color.This step is ver important to the latter steps as it plays as a fundamental role in indicating the quality of the bamboo chopstick later on.Follow me and join the Japanese artisan throught this episode to see how he even down the boring bamboo pieces into a piece of art.Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, fushimiurushikobo
Japanese Bamboo Chopstick - Part 6 and 7 - Japanese Traditional Art Japanese Arts 2018-08-10 | Bamboo chopstick have been around the Japanese culture for decades and is still widely used within today.Even though there are more alternatives span from design, prices, materials, bamboo woods is still one of many materials that remains the Japanese's favorite.In this episode, we take a closer look on how each stopstick is carefully handle.Urushi- a Japanese tradition substance from the Urushi tree that gives woodenware its shiny warm color, is used in this process to give the chopstick a warm and luxurious feels. Then like most Urushi lacquerware process, it is then sanded down one more time for the Urushi paint to merge onto the chopstick layer. This progress can be repeated up to a hundred times for the chopsticks to have its final color.This step is ver important to the latter steps as it plays as a fundamental role in indicating the quality of the bamboo chopstick later on.Follow me and join the Japanese artisan throught this episode to see how he even down the boring bamboo pieces into a piece of art.Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, fushimiurushikobo
Japanese Bamboo Chopstick - Part 4 and 5 - Japanese Traditional Art Japanese Arts 2018-07-31 | Bamboo chopstick have been around the Japanese culture for decades and is still widely used within today.Even though there are more alternatives span from design, prices, materials, bamboo woods is still one of many materials that remains the Japanese's favorite.In this episode, we take a closer look on how each stopstick is carefully handle.First of all, the Japanese artisan sanded out each individual piece through a running sanding machine to get rid of any excess pieces that can causes irritations for the skin. Yet that is not the only thing that this Japanese artisan focus. He then carefully used a firmer sand paper to sand down the piece of bamboo to create a smooth texture on the surface as well as to make sure that both chopstick is at the same size.Later on, the Japanese artisans brushed the chopsticks with clay to give the piece a nice shade to later on be painted on.This step is ver important to the latter steps as it plays as a fundamental and prerequisite role in indicating the quality of the bamboo chopstick later on.Follow me and join the Japanese artisan throught this episode to see how he even down the boring bamboo pieces into a piece of art.Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, fushimiurushikobo--------------------------Song: Transcend by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license (creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0)Artist: http://audionautix.com
Japanese Bamboo Chopstick - Part 2 and 3 - Japanese Traditional Art Japanese Arts 2018-07-26 | Bamboo chopstick have been around the Japanese culture for decades and is still widely used within today.Even though there are more alternatives span from design, prices, materials, bamboo woods is still one of many materials that remains the Japanese's favorite.In this episode, we take a closer look on how each stopstick is carefully handle.First of all, the Japanese artisan trim out the excessive pieces , cut them down into a sizable pieces . Later on, he then hover them above the candle to stretch out the bamboo pieces, making them easier to break even into 2 pieces of even chopsticks that can later on be sanded out.This step is ver important to the latter steps as it plays as a fundamental and prerequisite role in indicating the quality of the bamboo chopstick later on.Follow me and join the Japanese artisan throught this episode to see how he even down the boring bamboo pieces into a piece of art.Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, fushimiurushikobo
Japanese Bamboo Chopstick - Part 1 - Japanese Traditional Art Japanese Arts 2018-07-23 | My apologies for the postpone in posting. I was quite busy.But without further ado, I will get on with this week's series - Japanese Traditional Chopstick method making.Bamboo chopstick have been around the Japanese culture for decades and is still widely used within today.Even though there are more alternatives span from design, prices, materials, bamboo woods is still one of many materials that remains the Japanese's favorite.In this first episode, we can see the artisan gather a small bamboo plank and separate them into smaller pieces that is suitable for chopstick making.Please enjoy this video and I will follow up with the next episode shortly.Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, fushimiurushikobo.-----Music: Turning Slowly - Ugonna Onyekwe
A Distinctive Ceramic Treasure - Onta Yaki - Traditional Japanese Art Japanese Arts 2018-07-09 | Are you fond of Ceramic and how it's made? The looks of when the artisans shape the clay into a beautiful kitchenware is always so mesmerising. In this video, we get to look into the long-established art form from a small city in Kyushuu prefecture- Hita. Hita is a small village with a very few population around 30 minutes away from Oita. In this village, what it is best known for is the very distinctive ceramic style called Onta-Yaki, which is rich in the traditional value.In this video, you can see from how they gather the clay and make them into thin powder using hydro-power and slowly turns into a beautiful orange-like clay that turns dark when firing. This traditional arts have been arounf this village for century and it is continue to grows as older generation of this Japanese village passed down their skills to the younger generations.This certain ceramic type have a very stand out pattern that can be recognize around Japan and the world, which is a denticle patten throughout the piece. After watching this video, you will be able to know how this traditional pattern is made, and you would be amazed.Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, JAPANmania.
The Many Form of Makie - Getting to Know the Art - Japanese Traditional Art Japanese Arts 2018-07-03 | Did you know there are many forms and techiniques in making a beautiful hand-crafted Makie piece. This video will explains to you what are those technichques as well as bring you back to the ancient Japanese time.Maki-e (蒔絵 or sprinkled picture) is Japanese Urushi lacquer sprinkled with gold or silver powder as a decoration using a makizutsu or a kebo brush. The technique was developed mainly in the Heian period (794–1185) and blossomed in the Edo period (1603–1868). Maki-e objects were initially designed as household items for nobles but soon gained more popularity and were adopted by royal families and military leaders as a symbol of power.To create different colors and textures, maki-e artists use a variety of powders including gold and silver. Bamboo tubes and soft brushes of various sizes are used for laying powders and drawing fine lines. As it requires highly skilled craftsmanship to produce a Maki-e painting, young artists need many years of training to attain the skills and become Maki-e masters.Maki-e (蒔絵) represents the most sophisticated technique of the art of Urushi lacquer, designating a decorative work where the dust of gold or silver is gently sprinkled on still wet Urushi lacquer, usually black, to create the pattern. But above all, this collection is a human adventure. It is a journey and a discovery of an unknown beyond where know-how and innovation meet to the highest point. This meeting between the men of one of the oldest Japanese Urushi lacquer houses Zôhiko (象彦), located in Kyoto since its foundation in 1661, and those of the world's oldest watchmaking factory in uninterrupted production in Geneva since its foundation in 1755 - Vacheron Constantin - born a singular bearer of the same fundamental values: the Métiers Art Maki-e collection Romantic lacquers.Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, JAPANmania
Kyo-Urushi in the Making - How its made - Japanese Traditional Art Japanese Arts 2018-06-26 | Through the miraculous hand of the artisan, we can see from the begiinig to finish how just a boring woodpiece can turn into a pricy beauty.Urushi is to many, a miraculous substance. It is the sap from the lacquer tree, Toxicodendron vernicifluum, a plant closely related to poison ivy, and as such, considerably toxic. As with its better known cousins, the poison ivies, oaks and sumacs, contact with the tree can cause an unbearable affliction of rashes and blisters. Yet somehow, in some ancient time, someone realized that this liquid—the life-blood of this wondrous tree—holds a hidden potential.Urushi, as it has come to be known by its Japanese name, naturally cures through a process of oxidation and polymerization into a material with remarkable properties for a natural substance. Once hardened, Urushi forms a tough and scratch resistant surface impervious to water, alcohol, minor heat, acids and bases. Because of these properties, as well as its characteristics in application, Urushi has an incredible versatility in use from architectural elements and utilitarian wares to fine arts and crafts renown for their beauty and intricacy. Most of the time, the base for the lacquer is wood, like hinoki (Japanese cypress), sugi (cryptomeria), keyaki (zelkova), or kiri (paulownia), along with several other Japanese species. Urushi is impervious to most corrosive agent but it is incredibly pervious to dryness and cracking. Rarely Urushi is used with a metal base, let alone a metal bicycle frame. The metal need to be treated differently to ensure the Urushi can adhere to the metal. The result is a fascinating bicycle. The Urushi lacquer bring a uniqueness to elevate the bicycle frame above many others. The art of Urushi lacquer is truly beautiful!Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, japanzohiko.
The Art of the Broken - Kintsugi - Japanese Traditional Art Japanese Arts 2018-06-22 | In Japan, when a thing so precious, hold a dearing memory to its user, is broken- rather than throwing it away or keeping it broken still; the Japanese people mend this broken craft back together with a twist, thus creating the traditional art called Kinstsugi (金継ぎ).Kintsugi (金継ぎ) in which literally translate as Gold Joinery, is an art in which similar to the other Japanese traditional techniques called Maki-e as they also use Urushi as the bridge to mend the broken pieces together.The art of Kintsugi dated back to the Shogun Era of the Japanese people when the Japanese Emperor/ Shogun broke a Chinese tea bowl. Do not wanting to throw this piece away, the Shogun sent the broken bowl back to China for impairment. However, what was sent back was an ugly put-together tea bowl in which push the Japanese for a better way to repair item that have more aesthetic values.For the Japanese people, the broken trace does not lowered the value of the item, but rather enhances it as it hold more historical values as well as the captivating looks it brings to the eyes.There are plenty of Kintsugi style, in which some I stated as follow:Nyuu (Hibi) (ひび)Kakenokin (欠けの金)Yobi (呼び)Warenokin (われの金)Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, project Mプロジェクト エム
The making of Kokeshi Doll - a Japanese Traditional Art Japanese Arts 2018-06-20 | With swiftful hands, this Japanese artist is able to blow life into a piece of wood. Please tune in for a relaxing time through our video!Kokeshi Doll (こけし, 小芥子), is a type of traditional Japanese doll that is famous in the Northeast region of Japan. With history dating back to hundresd of years, there are various type of Kokeshi Doll after the World War II as Japanese artists seek for a more creative way to work with this type of traditional art. Below are one of a few type of Traditional type of Kokeshi Dolls: Tsuchiyu (土湯系)Yajirō (弥治郎系)Tōgatta (遠刈田系)Naruko (鳴子系)Sakunami (作並系Fun fact: This doll is a big inspiration for the famous gam company- Nintendo's Mii- an ingame avatar that can be created and customised by players.In this video, you can see throughout the process of making this tradition doll in a calming, soothing atmosphere that is almost like an ASMR video. Please enjoy.Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, Esther Bellido.
URUSHI x Fostex - When Old meets New - Japanese Tradional Art Japanese Arts 2018-06-18 | Have you ever how this tradional art form- Urushi Lacquer, would look on moden items? I hope you would find your answer through this video.With a history dating back to thousand of years, Urushi is a very traditional art that bring out the long-established lustrous look that warms the eyes of the beholder. Knowing such values, Fostex, a Japanese audio-focused company, bring this traditional arts into the modern world.In the beginning, you can have a closer look on how the Urushi is collected and how it is processed to create a shiny, smooth Urushi paint. The manufacturer- Sakamoto Urushi is in charge from start to finshed of the Urushi base. With a slightly different techniques during the making of this heaphone; a newly, more innovative touch to this tradional art form- Fostex is able to blow a more modern look to this item, yet keep the tradional values. You can see that tremendous care went to making each Urushi product. First, the wooden base is lacquered with a base Urushi and cured. Then, the craftsmen will covered the base with (base on the video) a coat of glitter-like silver paper. Next come the sand-out the excess pieces and then these artisan will coat the pice with another layer of Red (Shu) Urushi lacquer. Finally, the logo is painted on and coated with Silver paper.Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, FOSTEXjp.
Kumiko - The Art of Wood setting - Japanese Traditional Art Japanese Arts 2018-06-14 | The Japanese Art of woodword craftmanship - known as Kumiko, requires utmost dedication and precise cut to create one of the most stuning art form of its kind.Following Kurozu Tetsuo, one of the artisan who have been devote his life to this wonderful art form which sadly, is currently dying out.This art have been reported to be around since the Asuka era (600-700AD). This Japanese art was used mostly for sliding doors and room dividers. The reason for the decline in the number of artisans and this art throughout the years is the effort and the details one must put in until the finished product is made. Nowsaday, cheaper and quicker alternatives are available which is one of many factors contribute to the gradual disappearance of the Kumiko arts.In this video, you will see a few steps of the process in making this wonderful Japanse Art through the hand of Kurozu Tetsuo and his swift of hands.Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, Shiraishi Mokko.
Dazzling beauty of Makie on a watch dial - Vacheron Constantin Métiers Japanese Arts 2018-06-06 | It seems impossible but Makie on a watch dial existed. Prepare to be dazzled by its beauty!Maki-e (蒔絵 or sprinkled picture) is Japanese Urushi lacquer sprinkled with gold or silver powder as a decoration using a makizutsu or a kebo brush. The technique was developed mainly in the Heian period (794–1185) and blossomed in the Edo period (1603–1868). Maki-e objects were initially designed as household items for nobles but soon gained more popularity and were adopted by royal families and military leaders as a symbol of power.To create different colors and textures, maki-e artists use a variety of powders including gold and silver. Bamboo tubes and soft brushes of various sizes are used for laying powders and drawing fine lines. As it requires highly skilled craftsmanship to produce a Maki-e painting, young artists need many years of training to attain the skills and become Maki-e masters.Maki-e (蒔絵) represents the most sophisticated technique of the art of Urushi lacquer, designating a decorative work where the dust of gold or silver is gently sprinkled on still wet Urushi lacquer, usually black, to create the pattern. But above all, this collection is a human adventure. It is a journey and a discovery of an unknown beyond where know-how and innovation meet to the highest point. This meeting between the men of one of the oldest Japanese Urushi lacquer houses Zôhiko (象彦), located in Kyoto since its foundation in 1661, and those of the world's oldest watchmaking factory in uninterrupted production in Geneva since its foundation in 1755 - Vacheron Constantin - born a singular bearer of the same fundamental values: the Métiers Art Maki-e collection Romantic lacquers.In order for the metal to adhere with Urushi lacquer, it first need to be treated. A special composite of Urushi lacquer has to be mixed so it can adhere beautifully to the dial. Vermillion Urushi will be used to draw lines on the dial so the gold powder of Maki-e Urushi technique can stick and stay in place. After the final steps of burnishing, a beautiful Maki-e Urushi dial has been created.Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, RGBSWISS
Tsugaru-nuri - the beauty of Wabi-sabi in Urushi Lacquerware Japanese Arts 2018-06-05 | Wabi-sabi is the Japanese traditional aesthetic of seeing beauty in imperfection. Urushi lacquer with its impeccable allure has a branch that embodied wabi-sabi: Tsugaru-nuri. Tsugaru-nuri is named so after the progenitor of the technique. It is said that the Tsugaru clan developed and promoted the Tsugaru-nuri technique starting in the latter half of the 17th century. The foundation mainly of Tsugaru-nuri Urushi lacquerware features hiba or asunaro wood, which is very durable and has a slight scent to them. The technique is based on the Tang paint technique which paints various color lacquer in layers, polishes it to give a pattern with established technique like Nanako, Koko, Nishiki. Tsugaru-nuri are techniques hallmarked by its complex patterns and shapes created as much by the whim of chance as the skill of the craftsman. Urushi is mixed with egg whites, tofu and seeds, along with metal powders and pigments form the basis of these techniques with the intent of creating the random but expressive shapes and patterns distinctive of this techniques. The Tsugaru-nuri technique is the embodiment of the traditional Japanese aesthestics: wabi-sabi. Wabi-sabi is aesthetic view centered on the acceptance of transience and imperfection. It is sometimes described as one of beauty that is ""imperfect, impermanent and incomplete"". In the words of Richard Powell: ""Wabi-sabi nurtures all that is authentic by acknowledging three simple realities: nothing lasts, nothing is finished, and nothing is perfect."". This aesthetic is embodied by Tsugaru-nuri Urushi lacquerware.In order to produce a true piece of Tsugaru-nuri Urushi lacquerware, the artisan has to come the realization that aesthetic of his work are elevated by chances but not lessened by it. The artisan has to accept that he cannot translate his vision exactly into his work. The attitude of wabi-sabi - accepting your work is not perfect - is the fundamental of Tsugaru-nuri Urushi lacquerware. Although some might not regards Tsugaru-nuri highly in the pantheons of Urushi lacquerware, the wabi-sabi aesthetic endowed each piece of Tsugaru-nuri Urushi lacquerware with unique beauty. Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, doga design channel
Unparalleled elegance of Parker Duofold Makie Water Stream Japanese Arts 2018-06-04 | Another combination of Maki-e and a Western manufacturer has resulted in a truly fascinating work of art. Learn more about the pen here!In 2017, Parker introduces a limited series of only 77 Maki-e Fountain Pens but at a price of $1000 per pen but their beauty is unmatched. Parker dubbed this pen as デュオフォールド 蒔絵「流水」or Duofold Makie Running Water/Water Stream. Interestingly, this pen is only limited to inside Japan and has made into quite a prize possession of any pen lovers. Re-sellers have often this pen for sale at 3 or 4 times the original price. Maki-e (蒔絵 or sprinkled picture) is Japanese lacquer sprinkled with gold or silver powder as a decoration using a makizutsu or a kebo brush. To create different colors and textures, Maki-e artists use a variety of powders including gold and silver. Bamboo tubes and soft brushes of various sizes are used for laying powders and drawing fine lines. Horikomi and Haritsuke are the inlays and appliqués of the lacquer world. Raden happens to be most famous, using the shimmering and iridescent shells from oysters, mussels and abalone. Beyond the just the use of shell, however, a vast array of materials have also found their place with lacquer. Eggshells in rankaku, foil in heidatsu, wire, paper, gemstones or wood may all be used in the array of techniques in this category. This pen was created as combination of these 2 advances technique of Japanese Urushi lacquer. Since ancient times, water has come from the tallest mountains of the world, creating small stream before combining into rivers. The cap the Parker Duofold Maki-e Water Stream emulate these many small streams with Raden running from the top. The streams finally meet and merge together creating the Raden rivers with banks of Maki-e. The Raden and Maki-e are blended together, complementing and elevating each other to reach a harmonious level of unparalleled elegance. Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, PARKER PENS JAPAN パーカー公式
How Urushi lacquerware reach their perfection with Uwanuri (上塗り) Japanese Arts 2018-06-04 | As we learn more about Urushi lacquerware, have you ever wondered how they achieve the uniform look? If then, wonder no more, just watch this video!In previous videos, we have introduced to you Echizen and Tsugaru-nuri Urushi lacquerware. However, when we talk about Urushi lacquerware, it is imperative to talk about Wajima-nuri. One of most distinctive of Wajima-nuri Urushi lacquerware is the famous for the vermillion and black blurred Urushi lacquerware, which is a traditionally very long-lasting color scheme. This technique of painting with vermillion red and black Urushi lacquer is called Akebono. This video follow the process of an artisan from Wajima demonstrating achieve the famous blurred black vermillion Urushi. Using a lathe to spin the wooden base with cured base Urushi, the artisan use a brush to apply the vermillion Urushi and then black Urushi. Not the disturb the free flowing Urushi, the artisan lean in and let the flow of the Urushi guide his hand, only make small changes when necessary. This create a uniform top layer of the Urushi without any distinct brush strokes visible. What is even more fascinating is how the artisan blend the vermillion and black color together to create a seamless look without a distinct separation between the 2 colors. Black and vermillion are very contrast colors but the brilliance in the Akebono technique is how they blend together seamlessly on the Wajima Urushi Lacquerware. Taking a new brush, the artisan blend the black Urushi into vermillion Urushi. By making waves with the brush, the artisan was able to create a gradient of color with the black Urushi transiting seamlessly into the vermillion Urushi.Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, 真（あけぼの）シリーズ
Japanese Tanto with Urushi lacquered handle Japanese Arts 2018-05-31 | You have seen Urushi fountain pens, Raden art but have you seen a knife made with Urushi lacquer? Watch here to learn more!Dave J. Friesen is a swordsmith based in central Vancouver Island, Canada. He hand forges reclaimed carbon steel into blades, using techniques of the Japanese classical tradition to turn rusty scrap and natural materials into collectable heirlooms. Taken from his website, this is an excerpt on his work: ""Highlighting the potential for creative transformation in discarded objects, most of his raw material is sourced from worn out tools, farm machinery, and sawmill equipment. Even the softwood charcoal that fuels the forge is hand made in small batches from scrap wood.""Even though Urushi lacquerware nowadays are used mainly for tableware and to a lesser extant, fountain pens, the root of Urushi art is from making amours and weapons. Because Urushi has great protection against corrosive agent such as water or acid, it provide great protection from the wear and tear. Following this tradition and augmenting with his own style, Dave complete the handle and scabbard using Urushi lacquered and reclaimed materials.This video is a condensed version of the process so you can watch more easily. Below is the description taken from Dave's website for you to follow along the process.- The first layer of natural Urushi lacquer is wiped off leaving a thin sealing layer in the pores of the wood. - When the Urushi lacquer has fully cured, the handle is wrapped tightly in natural cotton cord to provide strength and grip texture. - The scabbard is also strengthened at key points with tightly wrapped cord. - The cord is saturated with natural Urushi lacquer and allowed to cure for several days. Several additional coats of Urushi are used to create the final surface, each requiring several days to cure. - Reclaimed tea powder is used to give the scabbard a sabi-nuri (rust texture) style ishimeji stone texture. Multiple layers of Urushi laccquer are used to seal, saturate, and create the final surface appearance. - The handle is polished with dried tokusa (horsetail) and then sealed with a final layer of Fuki-urushi. Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, Crossed Heart Forge - islandblacksmith
From wood to art - journey of Maki-e Lacquerware Japanese Arts 2018-05-30 | In this video, you will watch how a piece of Maki-e Urushi lacquer art came to be. We will follow this process from the first step of selecting woods to the final completion of the Maki-e. Follow along to see this wonderful journey.The first step is choose the wood as the foundation for the Maki-e piece. Wood are usually procured as a whole log to be cut into slices and inspect for quality. If the slice wood is not up to standard, it is discarded to be use for another purpose. The slices who passed the test are measured to be cut into smaller pieces and store to dry.The next step is to shape the wood into the right frame. Using a lathe and a special tool, the artisan chips and grind away at the wood piece until it reach the right thickness. How do you determine this? If you can see light shine through the wood grains then you have reached the correct thickness. The third step of the process is to prepare the base Urushi layer. In a previous video, you have see the process of making Nori-urushi. This is a very important process as it prevent the base from cracking as Urushi is pervious to dryness. Although in the video, a different material is mixed with Urushi, the principal stay the same. The following step is apply the top Urushi layer. This process can last longer due to the number of Urushi players and the video has condensed this process for your ease of viewing. As you can see, the Urushi is applied, left to cured and polished using charcoal or antler deer. This is repeated according to the numbers of layers applied. Finally, the Uwanuri (上塗り) - top layer is applied.Finally, after the Urushi has cured beautifully, the Maki-e artisan will use his skill to draw a painting on the Urushi background. Although this is a Maki-e piece, mother-of-pearl inlays are also employed to support and elevate the Maki-e. As talked about in previous videos, bamboo tubes and soft brushes is used to lay the powders and draw fine lines. In the hand of the artisan, the piece transform into a master class painting of Maki-e.Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, MAOメモリアルアートの大野屋
Wajima-nuri - The best of Japanese Urushi Lacquerware Japanese Arts 2018-05-29 | It is often said that Wajima-nuri is Japanese Urushi lacquerware. IF you want to find out why, watch this video now!When people talk about Japanese art, they usually mentions Kyoto or Osaka as the beginning and the end. It is true that within Kyoto hidden many Japanese art, even Urushi Lacquerware as shown in a previous video. However, the best of the Urushi art is not in Kyoto. Designated as an important tangible cultural asset by the Japanese government, Wajima-nuri is often hailed as the best among the world of Urushi lacquerware. The main distinguishing feature of Wajima-nuri is its durable undercoating that is achieved by the application of multiple layers of urushi mixed with powdered diatomaceous earth (ji-no-ko) onto delicate zelkova wooden substrates. Wajima is an area where the Urushi culture of Japan is particularly concentrated. Wajima-nuri characteristic traits have been identified in a bowl that was excavated from a site dating back to the Muromachi period (15th century), a building plaque with the name of a Nushiya (Urushi lacquerware producer) that dates back to 1476 which has survived in the Juzo Shrine in Wajima, and a vermilion door that dates back to the establishment of the shrine in 1524. These artifacts suggest that Wajima-nuri had already been established by the latter part of the medieval period. The key to Wajima-nuri Urushi lacquerware quality lie in the process of making each piece. Each stage of the production process is carried out by specialist craftsmen in a division of labor at each production stage to accomplish elegant Urushi lacquerware with a beautiful luster. - The first step is to select the wood to serve as the base for the Urushi lacquerware. The most appropriate kind of wood is chosen from a number of varieties. - The next step is the process of kyushitsu (the application of layers of Urushi) cloth is used to reinforce the rims, and undercoats mixed with ji-no-ko are applied. - The final step is to apply the Urushi. Wajima-nuri is especially famous for its vermilion red Urushi lacquerware. Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, 能登の里山里海デジタルアーカイブ
The Unmatched Beauty of Pelikan Maki e Fountain Pens Japanese Arts 2018-05-28 | Maki-e is often synonymous with Japanese but sometime that is not the case. This Maki-e Pelikan is praised for their priceless beauty!Every year, Pelikan introduces a limited series of 88 Maki-e Fountain Pens worth up to $8000 per pen but their beauty is priceless. Maki-e (蒔絵 or sprinkled picture) is Japanese lacquer sprinkled with gold or silver powder as a decoration using a makizutsu or a kebo brush. The technique was developed mainly in the Heian period (794–1185) and blossomed in the Edo period (1603–1868). Maki-e objects were initially designed as household items for nobles but soon gained more popularity and were adopted by royal families and military leaders as a symbol of power.To create different colors and textures, Maki-e artists use a variety of powders including gold and silver. Bamboo tubes and soft brushes of various sizes are used for laying powders and drawing fine lines. As it requires highly skilled craftsmanship to produce a Maki-e painting, young artists need many years of training to attain the skills and become Maki-e masters.This short film follow leading one of the leading Maki-e artisans in Japan, Mushu Yamazaki, at his fascinating work and records, in impressive images, the making of a precious Pelikan Maki-e fountain pen. This pen is done entirely by hand. For this pen, the devil is in the details. The artisan leave no details left untouched. From applying the base Urushi layers to the burnishing, all steps are handled with great care and attention from the artisan. The final step is for Mushu Yamazaki-san to add his signature to the pen. His signature is similar to stamp of approval as no artisan would sign a work that he do not take pride in. It is not exaggeration to say that this Pelikan Maki-e fountain pen is the perfect marriage of German efficient engineering and Japanese artistry.Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, Pelikan Deutschland
The secret behind this $800 Urushi pen Eggwhite! Japanese Arts 2018-05-28 | Have you ever wondered about the secret behind the beauty of Urushi? Look no further, this video will tell you the secret behind Urushi!"The Urushi Pearl Fountain Pen was a collaborative project between The Edison Pen Company and Ernest Shin of Hakumin Urushi Kobo. This Limited Edition Fountain Pen has only 20 pieces worldwide and is no longer being produced.Karanuri is the distinct Urushi technique used with these limited pens, one of several techniques considered Tsugaru-nuri. After the meticulous application of the first layers of Urushi (the same used for standard unadorned Urushi pieces), an uneven layer of Urushi is applied using a mixture of Urushi and egg whites, which is a sticky, gel-like mixture that resists running and dripping prior to curing. The mixture of egg whites and Urushi is carefully applied ensuring that the the desired patterns are created but do not result in the wrinkles. The first layer of the naka-nuri - 9 coats of naka-nuri - is applied just prior to the video. These Urushi layers are applied to give substance and strength to the Urushi prior to applying the upper layers and/or decorative layers. The first of these layers is the kuro-naka-nuri-urushi (black middle layer lacquer). Kuro-naka-nuri-urushi is a middle quality black lacquer made by adding iron hydroxide to transparent lacquer. A chemical reaction changes the color of the lacquer without significantly changing the consistency the way pigments would. After the meticulous applying of an even layer of Urushi, the pens are mounted to the base and left to sit for about 30 minutes. Any if at all, particle of dusts are then carefully removed with a sharp tool as these particles may prevent the Urushi from curing evenly. The Urushi is then cured in the furo for a day. Move on to the video, the Shibo Urushi step is the first step that is unique to the the decorative technique for these pens. The technique involves applying a layer of Shibo Urushi unevenly. Shibo Urushi is Urushi mixed with a stiffener or thickener, in this case, egg whites. Once the egg whites are thoroughly mixed in with the Urushi, it is traditionally applied with a special perforated spatula. However, to give the completed pen a distinctive look, the Shibo Urushi on these pens were applied with a palette knife.Disclaimer: I do now claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, Hakumin Urushi Kobo.
Japanese Maki-e Fountain Pens from AP Limited Edition! Japanese Arts 2018-05-23 | Ever wondered how a Japanese Maki-e Fountain Pen is made? Look no further, this video is your answer!Maki-e (蒔絵 or sprinkled picture) is Japanese lacquer sprinkled with gold or silver powder as a decoration using a makizutsu or a kebo brush. The technique was developed mainly in the Heian period (794–1185) and blossomed in the Edo period (1603–1868). Maki-e objects were initially designed as household items for nobles but soon gained more popularity and were adopted by royal families and military leaders as a symbol of power.To create different colors and textures, maki-e artists use a variety of powders including gold and silver. Bamboo tubes and soft brushes of various sizes are used for laying powders and drawing fine lines. As it requires highly skilled craftsmanship to produce a Maki-e painting, young artists need many years of training to attain the skills and become Maki-e masters.In this video, you will see how a Maki-e Fountain Pen is made from the very start until the finish product. This video has condensed all the most essential steps of making a Maki-e Fountain Pen. What is challenging for a Maki-e artisan when working on a fountain pen is the level of details that they need to achieve. Traditionally, Maki-e is often done on tableware which has a larger surface area for the artisan to work on. A fountain pen has a smaller surface area and this present a different kind of challenge to the artisan. As you watch the video, you can see how the artisans is not only able to overcome but create a wonderful painting on the fountain pen body with Maki-e.Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, AP Limited Editions.
Namiki Fountain Pen Making Process - What Creates The $10.000 Value? Japanese Arts 2018-05-22 | A $10,000 Foutain Pen! Unbelievable! You will be surpised even more after watching this video!It is Pilot Corportation 100th Anniversary in 2018. As such, it is time to look back at Pilot's beginning as Namiki and learn the true values behind their $10,000 pen.Around 90 years ago, it was normal practice to use a material called “ebonite” for the body of fountain pens. However, although ebonite showed tolerance toward ink, it had the shortcoming of changing colour and losing its shine over time. In their effort to solve this, Urushi spark the interest of Namikie founders. Urushi, a superior coating which Japan boasts to the world, creates an attractive body which was tolerant to deterioration. For luxury fountain pens in Western countries at the time, decorating the metal bodies with elaborate metal-carving techniques and designs was normal. The Namiki founders thought that by making fountain pens with Urushi and Maki-e, a culture associated with Japan, they could compete on even-footing throughout the world. Namiki Maki-e Fountain Pens are very expensive because of 3 pillars integrated in the pens.- Japanese Urushi LacquerJapanese Urushi Lacquer is a natural coating processed from the sap taken from the sumac tree. Not only is it highly durable, but the more it is used it gracefully fits into your hand while retaining its beautiful and unique charm. In the video, the undercoat of Maki-e fountain pens is layered with black Urushi lacquer.- Maki-e“Maki-e”, where detailed designs are expressed by sprinkling gold powder on lacquer is a Urushi technique synonymous with Japan. First, motifs are drawn by several types of brushes on the lacquer undercoat. Afterward, powdered gold is sprinkled onto the lacquer using a fine bamboo tool called “Funzutsu”. Finally, after Urushi has been applied to the whole pen, the Urushi is rubbed off with charcoal until the pattern appears on the surface. - Emphasis on the pen nibThe pen nib can be said to be the life source of the fountain pen. Namiki strongly believe the in creating the best writing experience so the best nibs must be used for their fountain pens.Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, Namiki.
The secret behind every Urushi lacquerware - Nori Urushi (のり漆 - 糊漆) Japanese Arts 2018-05-19 | It is time to get back to basic and learn how to make the Urushi layers!Urushi is to many, a miraculous substance. It is the sap from the lacquer tree, Toxicodendron vernicifluum, a plant closely related to poison ivy, and as such, considerably toxic. As with its better known cousins, the poison ivies, oaks and sumacs, contact with the tree can cause an unbearable affliction of rashes and blisters. Yet somehow, in some ancient time, someone realized that this liquid—the life-blood of this wondrous tree—holds a hidden potential.Urushi, as it has come to be known by its Japanese name, naturally cures through a process of oxidation and polymerization into a material with remarkable properties for a natural substance. Once hardened, urushi forms a tough and scratch resistant surface impervious to water, alcohol, minor heat, acids and bases. Because of these properties, as well as its characteristics in application, urushi has an incredible versatility in use from architectural elements and utilitarian wares to fine arts and crafts renown for their beauty and intricacy. Most of the time, the base for the lacquer is wood, like hinoki (Japanese cypress), sugi (cryptomeria), keyaki (zelkova), or kiri (paulownia), along with several other Japanese species. Urushi is impervious to most corrosive agent but it is incredibly pervious to dryness and cracking. To strengthen the base against cracking, a woven fabric, like cotton, hemp or silk, is applied to it with nori usushi (urushi and rice flour). As such, nori-urushi is a very important part of every Urushi lacquerware. To make Nori-urushi, rice flour is added to water at the ratio of 1:20. After boiling for 10 minutes, the mixture is left to cool. Proceed to stir the mixture to achieve a consistent thickness throughout. The next step is to add raw Urushi (生漆) to the mixture (the volume of raw Urushi is equal to that of water). Finally stir until a consistent gray brown color is achieved through out. Now you have completed making Nori-urushi. Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, fushimiurushikobo
The Journey to become a true Raden craftsman (螺鈿職人) Japanese Arts 2018-05-17 | It is not easy to become a true craftsman. Determination and dedication are only the mininum, witness the journey to become a true Raden craftsman!Takaoka City’s prized Takaoka Urushi lacquerware has captivated many people with its beauty. Decorated with simple, delicate designs and vividly elegant colors, it has gained popularity both inside and outside of Japan. Two Urushi Raden technique are representative of Takaoka Urushi lacquerware: yusuke-nuri and aogai-nuri. Aogai-nuri uses inlaid mother-of-pearl to create its designs. By using thin, hand-crafted shells, the foundation becomes transparent, illuminating a beautiful shade of blue. Musashigawa Kobo is famous for its aogai-nuri technique. This video details the story of Takeshi Musashigawa - 4th generation Urushi lacquerware craftsman - learning and improving his skill to become a true Raden craftsman. Takeshi Musashigawa is a young traditional craftsperson who has inherited the traditions and techniques of aogai-nuri Takaoka Urushi lacquerware, designated a traditional handcraft by the government of Japan. As the fourth generation of Musashigawa Kobo, founded in 1910, he works with his father Yoshinori, the third generation of the family business, and other partners to tackle the challenge of creating new things. In 2016, he was designated a traditional craftsperson by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry.“In Takaoka Urushi lacquerware, mother-of-pearl inlay is made by creating various patterns using abalone and other shells ground to about 0.1 mm thick and cut to various shapes. In Takaoka, it’s called “aogai-nuri (lit. “blue shell coating”)” because the color of the base lacquer gleams through, giving the seashells a blue glow. Takaoka actually holds a roughly 90% share of Japan’s market for inlaid mother-of-pearl wares.”The techniques of producing beautiful aogai-nuri Urushi lacquerware have been handed down from generation to generation in the Musashigawa family. The best-known work of Takeshi’s grandfather Kenzo are splendid display tables made from the Taisho through the early Showa period in the early 20th century. “The display tables my grandfather made with the Chinese-style pattern called karamono are still treasured in the world of the tea ceremony. Apparently, ornate decorations were very popular at the time. My father specializes in vivid patterns of flowers and birds. I like to rearrange traditional ancient patterns in contemporary ways. Mother-of-pearl inlay has a long history. For example, if you take a look at a masterpiece from the Edo Period, it still seems fresh. I rearrange traditional patterns like flower-shaped rhombi and the seven treasures in my own ways to create contemporary designs. Recently, in addition to wood, I’ve been creating inlaid mother-of-pearl products using materials like glass vessels, metal like Takaoka copperware, stone, and even iPhone covers. By combining the casual products we use every day with mother-of-pearl inlay, I’m trying to create products for the way people live today.”Disclaimer: I do now claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, ニッポン手仕事図鑑.
The Art of Kyoto Maki-e (京蒔絵) Japanese Arts 2018-05-16 | Kyoto, former Imperial capital of Japan, is known not only for the sights but the arts as well. KyoMaki-e (京蒔絵) is one of the oldest and most beatiful of those arts.Maki-e (蒔絵 or sprinkled picture) is Japanese lacquer sprinkled with gold or silver powder as a decoration using a makizutsu or a kebo brush. The technique was developed mainly in the Heian period (794–1185) and blossomed in the Edo period (1603–1868). Maki-e objects were initially designed as household items for nobles but soon gained more popularity and were adopted by royal families and military leaders as a symbol of power.To create different colors and textures, maki-e artists use a variety of powders including gold and silver. Bamboo tubes and soft brushes of various sizes are used for laying powders and drawing fine lines. As it requires highly skilled craftsmanship to produce a Maki-e painting, young artists need many years of training to attain the skills and become Maki-e masters.In this video, you will witness an experienced Kyoto Maki-e craftsman work on a Maki-e product. - First the outline of the decorations is etched onto the Urushi surface. The artisan then prepare the Urushi to use as the base layer of the decorations.- Using the a fine bamboo tool called “Funzutsu”, the artisan sprinkled onto the Urushi lacquered surface. The artisan then apply another Urushi layer to bring out the beauty of the gold decoration. - Charcoal is used to burnished the surface of Urushi lacquerware. The craftsman polish the Urushi surface time and time again until the luster of the decoration shine through and the pattern came alive. - The last but very important for the artisan is bring out the Urushi lacquer again. This require the application of several addition layers. Now, the Maki-e - sprinkled picture - on the Urushi lacqureware is finally completed. Despite what you have witness, this process is not done in a short amount of time. An artisans need a lot of skills and experience to be able to complete a work of Maki-e. To hold an Urushi lacquerware adorned with Maki-e is to hold a work of art.Disclaimer: I do now claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner.
What makes up the luxurious values of Echizen Urushi Lacquerware? Japanese Arts 2018-05-15 | Echizen Urushi lacquerware - birthplace of a legend. Learn more about Echizen Urushi lacquerware right here!In 527 A.D, when the 26th emperor of Japan was young, he wanted to repair his crown. He looked everywhere but no craftsman could do it. Then, an Urushi craftsman from Echizen came forward. The Echizen craftsman repair the crown beautifully using Urushi. The emperor was so impressed that he ordered the craftsman to make an item that befit his status. The craftsman spent day and night thinking before presenting a handmade Urushi bowl to the emperor. The beauty of the Urushi bowl is said to have enchanted the emperor so much that he ordered the craftsmen of Echizen to spread their Urushi art throughout Japan. Thus, began the art of Echizen Urushi lacquerware.Considered to be the oldest production district of Urushi lacquerware in Japan, Echizen Urushi was improved between Meiji and Taisho period. The forerunners of Echizen Urushi traveled all over Japan to search for superior Urushi material and advanced Urushi techniques. Today, Echizen is continuously innovating by producing new Urushi lacquerware fit for modern use.The process of creating Echizen Urushi- Creating the base forms: The base usually made of natural wood or plywood and must be dried for at least 6 months to 1 year. Creating round shape Urushi lacquerware involves the use of holding blades and carving shapes into blocks of wood revolving on a wood lathe. - Coating the surface with Urushi: Two layers of Urushi compose the lacquerware surface: the basecoat Sabiurushi and the topcoat. Applying the topcoat requires tremendous skill as the Urushi must be applied with equal thickness. The Urushi craftsmen need to control the temperature and humidity accurately during the drying stage. This process can take 3 months. - Decorations: Urushi shines more with beautiful decorations. Chinkin is a traditional technique that adheres applications, such as gold or silver powder and gilt, on carved patterns. Makie, another technique, is applied using gold and silver powders sifted over wet patterns painted with Urushi. Disclaimer: I do now claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, 伝統工芸 青山スクエアクエア (Dentōkugei Aoyama Sukuea)
The creation of a Nakaya Urushi Fountain Pen - Made in Japan Japanese Arts 2018-05-14 | Nakaya, original name of Platinum Pen Company, is famous for Urushi fountain pens. A Nakaya Urushi pen can cost thousand of dollars. If you have ever wondered why Nakaya Urushi pens are so expensive, here is your answer! Established in 1999, Nakaya is famous for their handmade Urushi fountain pens. Each of them meticulously made by craftsmen who have had nearly half a century worth of experience. All Nakaya pens are made entirely by hand. Starting with base material, Ebonite, the craftsmen use grinder to create the cigar shape. Afterward many layers of Urushi is laid over the base Ebonite material to create a sophisticated and elegant coating. Platinum, famous for their nibs, sourced only the best nibs for each Nakaya Urushi pens. Each nib is grind and tested thoroughly to ensure smooth ink flow and consistency in the line. It is not exaggeration to say to hold a Nakaya Urushi pen is to hold a work of art. This is the process of how a Nakaya Urushi fountain pen is made:- The best Ebonite material is sourced to make the pen body.- Urushi artisans make and apply the Urushi paint over the base Ebonite material. - After the Urushi paint is allowed to dry and complete, the pen will be assembled with nibs for testing.- The beautiful Urushi is important but how a pen writes is also important. The nib goes through rigorous testing to ensure the best quality. Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of this video.All copyrights go to the original owner, Dress up Men
