Holzschnitzung / Haustier Alter / Katze

Life with a pet is full of joy and gives us a sense of security.

We wondered if we could give that feeling so that people could feel it even after their pets had gone.
By creating a pet altar, the craftsmen thought that pet owners could use it as a place to hold their pets close to their hearts.
We also paid particular attention to the materials and finishes so that the altar gives the feeling of warmth and charm when placed next to you.

Natural hinoki cypress is used to express its warmth, and Kazushige Ijiri, a butsudan carver known for his soft impression of carving, puts his heart and soul into his work to express the pet's loveliness.

Width：5.5cm
Depth：4.5cm
Height：8.5cm
Weight：28g

Wood

ENGRAVING STUDIO IJIRI

We utilize the engraving techniques not only to preserve its tradition, but also use them for "now”. This means Ijiri Engraving Studio wants to not only preserve their tradition, but also to utilize our engraving techniques globally for today’s society.

We are striving to create works of art that are needed by people who live in today's world. With this in mind, we strive to create works of art every day.

ARTISAN STORY

Ijiri Engraving Studio / Kazushige Ijiri
The company proposes innovative concepts for butsudan (Buddhist altars) that blend in with modern life. Also, they collaborate with traditional Shiga crafts to introduce new ideas that combine Shiga traditions and innovation.

SUIUNCHOBORI / JAPANESE WOOD CARVING

About 100 years ago / 1900s / Modern Japan

Suiun carving is a modern Japanese woodcarving tradition that uses chisels to create relief patterns while preserving the visual character of the wood itself. Building on older carving skills, it developed through trays, boxes, panels and decorative objects that sit between household craft and fine art.

In Japan, this type of carving is valued for the way grain and carved shadow work together rather than for paint or applied ornament. Contemporary makers can adapt the same principles to abstract motifs and objects suited to modern interiors.

Carving is a subtractive art: once wood has been removed, it cannot be put back. The maker must imagine the finished form inside the material and reveal it gradually. Because relief depends on shadow, the same surface changes character as light moves across it during the day.

Individual Differences

As each piece is individually handcrafted, slight variations in color, pattern, shape, and texture may occur. These subtle differences are a natural characteristic of handcrafted works, making each piece truly unique. We hope you will enjoy these individual variations as part of the beauty and character of Japanese craftsmanship.

Production Time

If an item is not currently in stock, it may be made to order by the artisan. As each piece is carefully handcrafted, production may take several months depending on the item and the artisan's schedule. We appreciate your patience and understanding.