Mokume gane

“Mokume gane” is a metalworking technique that originated in Japan 400 years ago during the Edo period and was used to make tsuba (sword guards) and other items. The grain-like patterns are created by using the different colors of the metals. Because the pattern resembles that of iron sword wood (tagayasan), a type of famous tree, it is also referred to as “Tagayasan-Ji,” and is widely known overseas as “mokume gane”.

Vase

Meiji period. Gold lacquer,Shell,Enamel,Gold inlayed,Copper,Shakudo,Shibuichi

kettle with woodgrain pattern.

Late Edo period. Shakudo,Copper

Kozuka with design of fish and octopus on woodgrain pattern. Unsigned

Late Edo period. Silver,Shibuichi,Shakudo,Copper

Tsuba with design of woodgrain pattern. Unsigned

Mid-to-late Edo period. Shakudo,Copper,Gold,Silver

Take a look at the state of research and preservation of traditional techniques and culture

Mokumeganeya is participating in the Tokyo Metropolitan Government's "Edo Tokyo Kirari Project" to introduce innovative products to the world using mokume gane, a traditional metalworking technique from the Edo period. The "Edo-Tokyo Kirari Project" is an initiative to highlight the techniques and products rooted in the traditions of Edo Tokyo as treasures of the city and promote them to the world.

EDO TOKYO KIRARI WEB site : https://en.edotokyokirari.jp/

Mokumeganeya is participating in the Tokyo Metropolitan Government's "Edo Tokyo Kirari Project"