Collection Interior Ornament Rare Item The soul of a master craftsman inheriting the traditional techniques since the Edo period Free pedestal included ■ Yew, the prefectural tree of Gifu Prefecture, is deeply connected to the Imperial Family. In the distant past, Emperor Nintoku had a shaku (ceremonial staff) made from this precious wood, and its beauty and high quality were so highly praised that he was granted the highest rank, "Shoichii" (Senior First Rank), hence the name. And, Ichii Itto-bori (Yew Single-Knife Carving) using yew wood is the supreme technique developed by Ryochou Matsuda, a netsuke (miniature sculpture) carver of the Edo period. Currently, works carved using this traditional technique are designated as national traditional crafts. ■ This time, we are introducing the Ichii Itto-bori "Daruma" (a traditional Japanese doll), boldly carved by Mokujin Washizuka, a traditional craftsman representing Hida Takayama, the city of artisans. While it has a bold form with clearly visible carving marks, the surface feels remarkably smooth. The beautiful wood grain with its intricate annual rings is exquisite, and you can enjoy the unique texture of the natural wood. Yew, the precious wood associated with the Imperial Family It is the prefectural tree of Gifu Prefecture, and has a long history, so much so that Emperor Nintoku had a shaku made from it and was granted the rank of Shoichii. Wild species grow naturally on the summit of Mount Daisen in the Chugoku region, and it is designated as a Special Natural Monument. The Ichii Itto-bori works "Hannya" (a type of Noh mask) and "Daruma" introduced this time use valuable yew wood that has aged for four to five hundred years, and its value is exceptional even just for the material. It is famous for its nickname, "natural art wood," such as the wood grain created by the intricate annual rings and the contrast of colors clearly divided by the akata (inner wood) and shirota (outer wood). Mokujin Washizuka - Brief Biography Born in Gifu Prefecture in 1971. Moved to Takayama in 1990. Studied under Hisayuki Wani and began training in Ichii Itto-bori. Became independent as Washizuka Sculpture in 1996. His art name is Mokujin. Certified as a traditional craftsman in 2010. Size: Approximately 88 x 72 x 38 mm Body only Please check the condition of the product in the photos. A1500 Thank you for viewing.