Tokyo Ginki [ Silverware ]

Izumi Kenichirou

While he was a student, he had a particular interest in manufacturing, for about a year after graduation, he traveled all around Japan until reaching Kitakyushu. After that, by chance, he found a job offer in a metal industrial arts magazine, applied and got the job. Because he found the metal arts shop so interested, it opened his eyes, and he became so absorbed in that work. He continued on to work at the shop for 14 years, while winning numerous awards. At the age of 39, he decided to become independent, which is what he still continues to do today.
Since the early days in the continents, there would be silverware, that needed to be treated with care, being transported all around, from Europe to China. It was during the Nara period where silverware was introduced to Japan. From there they have evolved into their own version. However, in addition to not having customs to use silverware in old days in Japan, there is not so much demand for tableware because of its high price, while adornments as interior are preferred for both Japanese and foreigners, In addition, there seems to be demand as Buddhist equipment and accessories.
There are three techniques for metal craft techniques. A metal hammer to hammer out shapes and patterns, carving, scraping metal with a cheek (tapestry), and a casting mold, filling it with molten metal and shaping it. One can more easily mass produce their product if they use a mold, so it is also possible to sell at a relatively inexpensive price while suppressing the cost of work production.
“Compared to the past, there was no difference on the finish of the work produced either by hand or machine, but the complicated parts of the work has become more efficient with the use of machines, but the core part still should be handmade, “Izumi says.
At Ginza Izumi Ken, we also have a hands-on workshop where children and adults can enjoy themselves. You can create things like a flat ring and bangle bracelets.