Hand-engraved Japanese wooden box with matsu (pine) motif

This superb rectangular Japanese box in light paulownia wood was made entirely by hand by the craftsmen at Maruni, a venerable Kyōto institution (established in 1903) specialising in kyo karakami, printing on Japanese paper, originally used mainly to decorate fusuma (sliding paper partitions).

To explain the incredible work that has been done by hand on this box, we first need to explain kyo karakami. The method has been traditional in Kyōto since the Heian era (8th-12th centuries): dyes called kira (mica) and gofun (white) are mixed to obtain the desired hue and then applied, using a round sieve, to a block of wood engraved with a motif. Japanese paper is then laid, little by little, onto the engraved wooden plate, taking on the colour and the motif. The sheets are worked one by one.

The wooden printing blocks used are engraved by hand and Maruni continues to use those that were engraved in the 19th century, a fabulous ode to the quality of craftsmanship handed down from generation to generation.

For this box, the craftsman has transcribed this heritage by hand-engraving, using tiny tools and with incredible finesse, a traditional Maruni motif that can be found on some of the larger-scale wooden blocks.

To complete the box, an antique fusuma handle in black metal with a beautiful matsu (pine) motif has been added, providing a striking contrast.

This object is unique and extremely decorative, created by Maruni to showcase the full extent of its craftsmanship expertise, a precious object of Japanese craftsmanship that links traditional heritage with contemporary vision.

Paulownia wood comes from an Asian tree. It is extremely resistant, strong, solid and exceptionally light. Paulownia boxes are often found in Japanese homes for storing belongings or treasures.

PLACE OF MANUFACTURE	JAPAN
DIMENSIONS	Length 15,8cm x Width 11cm x Height 5,8cm
WEIGHT	140gr
COMPOSITION	Paulownia wood, metal

This object keeps in memory the hand of the craftsman who designed it with patience. It will accompany your daily life, bringing its delicate and refined beauty, while contributing to the preservation of unique craftsmanship.

CARE INSTRUCTIONS: Clean with a soft cloth to avoid scratches, soaked with a little warm water if necessary. No microwave, dishwasher, dryer.

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