CHIGAI HIROSHI ”Chigai Crafts”
ーーProfile
Born in Gojoume, Southern Akita District, Akita
Established metal processing company “Chigai Kogei Hardware Ltd.” in 1978 and renamed to C. K. Artec Corporation in 1992.
Twenty years ago, he also established “Chigai Crafts” and has continued seeking and creating his own Mokume-gane works.
Awarded for excellence “Contemporary Master Craftsman” by the Ministry of Health in 2006
Authorized as Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2023
ーーWhat is Mokume-gane?
A Traditional metalwork originating in Akita Prefecture in the early Edo period.
It is made by multiple layers of different colored metals (mainly Shakudo (Red copper), copper, and silver) welded together by heat and then carved to produce a pattern that results in a wood-grain like pattern. “Moku杢” means the complex pattern of wood grains.
It is said that it was a metalworking technique used to decorate the brim of samurai swords.
“Chigai Crafts” also holds a workshop to experience shaving-out mokume-gane accessories.
PICK UP!
ーーRectangle Mokume Gane silver pendant
A rectangle shaped pendant, which is made by the technique of Mokume-gane metalwork. This product is made so the differences in color, such as reddish-brown, copper, and silver, are reflected in the patterns, resulting in a simple yet elegant design. The unique dimensional pattern enhances the color patterns. Includes an adjustable leather necklace cord, which can be changed as a necklace or choker. The back side is texturized for design and anti-slip.
