|
| | 
What Is Mokume-Gane?
“Author Unknown”
by Neels van den Berg
Mokume-gane (Mo-coo-may Gah-nay) is a mixed-metal laminate with distinctive
layered patterns. Translating as “wood-grain metal”, the name was borrowed
from one type of pattern created in the forging of swords and other edged
weapons.
The Mokume-Gane Story
In Japan, from the late 1600’s to the mid 1800’s, the samurai sword
transitioned from being a tool for fighting battles into a symbol of the
warrior class. The quality and amount of decoration on the sword handle and
sheath became an indicator of ones social status and wealth of the samurai.
The level of craftsmanship demonstrated in many of these sword furnishings is
second to none. The sword smiths developed a wide array of techniques for use
in the decoration of these swords. The traditional technique of mokume gane (moku
= wood, me = eye and gane = metal) was one such technique.
Denbei Shoami, a 17th century master metalsmith from the Akita prefecture, who
used it for the adornment of samurai swords, is credited with inventing mokume.
Using the mokume gane technique the smith would create laminated metal billets
that were fused by heat and pressure. The billets, composed of various metal
combinations were forged, carved and finished to produce uniquely patterned
metal stock, were then used to fabricate parts for the samurai sword. The
beautiful patterns in these pieces for the handle would reflect similar
patterns developed in the forging of the sword blade.
Mokume gane as traditionally practiced was a very difficult process to learn;
this was partly due to the difficultly of successfully fusing the metals and
partly due to the skill required to forge the laminated billet down to useable
material without separating the layers.
Please Note:
This article came to me as “author unknown.” If you know who wrote it, or even
just a lead as to where I might find out, please let me know so that I can
give credit where it is due!
It is often the case that the author prefers to remain anonymous, and if so,
that’s fine. But I would be delighted (not to mention obligated!) to attach a
name to the work of the person who wrote it!
This page last edited on
Wednesday, 27 April 2011
| |
Alphabetical index
|
