About chōkin
彫金には、「彫り」「象嵌」「打ち出し」といったさまざまな技法があります。
| What is Chōkin (chiseling) |
Chōkin involves using a special chisel called a "tagane" to engrave various patterns on the surface of metal or to inlay different metals into the engraved sections, among other techniques.
| Engraving |
This technique uses a tagane to create various patterns on the surface of metal. There are several types of engraving methods, including:
- Kebori (Hairline Engraving): Basic line engraving with a V-shaped blade.
- Keribori: Continuous fine lines engraved with a triangular blade.
- Kezuribori: Engraving with a sharper blade to cut the metal.
| What is Zōgan (metal inlay)? |
Zōgan involves engraving patterns on the surface of the metal and embedding another metal into these engravings to express the patterns through the different colors and textures of the metals. There are several zōgan techniques, including:
- Sen zōgan (wire inlay): Metal is inlaid into engraved lines.
- Hira zōgan (flat inlay): Metal is inlaid flush with the surface so that the pattern does not protrude.
- Takaniku zōgan (relief inlay): Metal is inlaid to protrude above the surface, giving the pattern height.
- Nunome zōgan (metal overlay): Metal foil is inlaid into fabric-like textures engraved into the surface.
| Making Process of Zōgan |
①Engrave grooves and widen the bottom
②Fit metal pieces into the engraved shapes
③Secure the inlay by hammering the edges
④Polish the surface with a file or stone to finish
| Uchidashi (chasing) |
This technique involves using various tagane to repeatedly hammer both sides of a metal sheet to create three-dimensional shapes. The resulting shapes can vary from highly raised forms to lower reliefs, such as brooches or kimono obi clasp.
| Making Process of Uchidashi |
①Transfer the shape outline onto the metal
②Use tagane to shape the metal while heating it
③Cut out the shaped sections
④Polish the surface, apply inlay patterns, and finish with coloring
＜Source: "What is Traditional Kōgei? Edited by Japan Kōgei Association East Japan Branch / Published by Unsodo, P.45,46>
