What is Kumiko Zaiku｜Delicate woodworking techniques steeped in Japanese tradition
What is Kumiko Zaiku｜Delicate woodworking techniques steeped in Japanese tradition
Kumiko zaiku is a traditional Japanese woodworking technique in which wood is combined into geometric patterns without the use of nails. This technique has been handed down from the Asuka Period to the present day through the skill and passion of craftsmen. Today, it is widely used for everything from wall-hanging interior decorations to fittings and folding screens.
Let's take a closer look at the characteristics, history, and production techniques of kumiko zaiku, as well as its use in modern times.
Characteristics and Attractiveness of Kumiko Zaiku
The most distinctive feature of kumiko work is that it does not use any nails or metal fittings, but only wood to create complex geometric patterns. The wood is mainly made from coniferous trees such as cedar and cypress, and is ground into thin strips, then grooved, drilled, and hosoed, and then carefully assembled one by one.
It is a very delicate technique and has the following three characteristics
Gap between trees
In Kumiko work, there are almost no gaps between pieces of wood. For example, to assemble a hemp leaf pattern on a 1,000mm x 2,000mm panel, approximately 3,500 pieces must be assembled without gaps.
Surface Finish
It is processed with the utmost care to ensure that there are no bumps, scratches, or "whiskers" where the wood fibers pop out.
Grain direction
Avoids reverse grain (areas where the direction of the wood fibers is reversed) to achieve a beautiful finish.
The charm of Kumiko work lies not only in its elaborate geometric patterns, but also in the beauty of the shadows created when light passes through it. These shadows bring depth and warmth to a space and embody the traditional Japanese sense of beauty.
Structure and Name
The structure of kumiko-zaiku mainly consists of "jigumi" and "leaf kumiko.
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<Jigumi
Jigumi is the basic framework of kumiko. There are three types of jigumi: 90 degrees vertically and horizontally, 30 degrees (rhombi kumi), and 30 degrees plus vertical. Within this jigumi, members called "leaves" of various shapes are incorporated.
Typical leaf kumiko patterns include the following
- Hemp leaves: the most common pattern
- Yae hemp leaf: pattern of eight layers of hemp leaves
- Sesame pattern: Motif based on a textile pattern
- Odd hemp: double hemp leaves with a triangular shape in the center
- Cherry Blossom: A graceful pattern resembling cherry blossoms that reminds us of the four seasons.
- Teijizuna: A design that evokes nobility with a continuous lattice pattern.
- Mie Hishi: Geometric pattern based on three overlapping diamond shapes
- Ryuyo: Delicate and gorgeous Kumiko pattern with a motif of Ryuyo flowers.
The charm of Kumiko work lies not only in its delicate and beautiful patterns, but also in the meaning behind them.
For example:
- Hemp leaf: means healthy growth of children and protection against evil
- Sesame: for health and longevity
- Cherry blossoms: new beginnings, prosperity
- Longan: sincerity, integrity
Knowing these meanings will further deepen your understanding of and attachment to Kumiko Zaiku.
History and Development
The origins of kumiko-zaiku can be traced back to the Asuka Period, approximately 1,400 years ago. With the arrival of Buddhism, the techniques necessary for temple construction were introduced to Japan, and it is believed that the techniques that became the prototype of kumiko-zaiku were among them. One example of such work is the "Manjikawaseki-gamiko" seen on the balustrades of the Golden Hall and five-story pagoda of Horyu-ji Temple built in the Asuka period (710-794).
Today, Kumiko work is utilized in various forms, such as fittings, lighting fixtures, and interior accessories. While preserving traditional techniques, new expressions have been created to meet modern needs.
Production Techniques and Craftsmanship
The production of kumiko zaiku requires advanced techniques and a wealth of experience. The main production processes include "material selection," "wood processing," "assembly," "finishing," and "incorporation into frames.
The craftsman's skill is evident in his precision work, where even a margin of error of 0.1 mm is not tolerated. For example, to create a "hemp leaf" pattern, six diamond shapes are combined within a hexagon, and the skill to adjust them to fit perfectly is required.
It is also important to understand the characteristics of wood and to take into account the expansion and contraction of the wood due to seasonal and humidity changes. These meticulous considerations support the durability and beauty of Kumiko work.
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Workshop Introduction: Kinoshita Mokugei (Okawa Kumiko, Fukuoka Prefecture)
Kinoshita Mokgei was established in 1990 as the only workshop specializing in Kumiko in Okawa City, Fukuoka Prefecture. The founder, Masato Kinoshita, was born into a family of joiners, and after eight years of training in Tochigi Prefecture, he started his own business at the age of 26.
Kinoshita has inherited traditional kumiko techniques while incorporating an innovative approach to meet modern needs. Notably, he worked on the interior decoration of JR Kyushu's "Nanatsuboshi in Kyushu" cruise train. This was a major turning point for the company.
Kinoshita Mokugei is pursuing new possibilities for Kumiko, not only for traditional uses such as Ranma and Shoin Shoji, but also for modern interior accessories and lampshades. He has also formed a group of craftsmen called "Team OKAWA" to work on various projects. Mr. Kinoshita is committed to the inheritance and development of the Kumiko culture based on his creed, "As a craftsman, I realize what the customer wants and offer something more than that.
Official HP】 【Official HPKinoshita Mokugei (kinoshitamokugei.com)
The Use and Future of Kumiko Zaiku in Modern Times
Kumiko work has been a familiar element of traditional Japanese architecture, but in modern times it is used in a variety of ways.
interior design
By incorporating Kumiko work into partitions, fittings, lighting fixtures, etc., a modern Japanese space can be created.
commercial facility
It is used as decoration and partitions in stores and hotels that want to create a luxurious Japanese atmosphere.
product design
Elements of kumiko-zaiku are also incorporated into everyday items such as smartphone cases, accessories, and stationery.
artwork
More and more artists are using kumiko-zaiku not only for its traditional patterns, but also as a method of expression in contemporary art.
In the future, while preserving the traditional techniques of kumiko-zaiku, it is expected that new techniques will be fused with new technologies and applied to contemporary designs. new methods of making kumiko-zaiku using 3D printing technology and the development of complex patterns using digital design tools are examples of how tradition and innovation are being fused together.
Kumiko work is one of the most delicate and beautiful traditional Japanese crafts. Its exquisite craftsmanship, deep history, and new developments in the modern age embody the depth and flexibility of Japanese culture. There are high expectations for the future of Kumiko Zaiku, which will continue to evolve with the times, and continue to transmit the Japanese sense of beauty to the world.