Kirikane Pendant / Gold Leaf Appliqué / Scarlet Mirror (Kokyo)

This Pendant is made using a traditional technique called Kirikane.
The red wood is finely decorated with gold and fascinates the viewer.

Kirikane is the traditional Japanese technique that uses materials such as finely beaten gold and platinum foil. These foil pieces are then cut into various shapes like squares, circles, triangles and fine stripes as thin as human hair, and then are pressed onto the art's surface.
These techniques have been preserved from ancient
Egypt and China.
In 6th century Japan these foil shapes were used to decorate Buddha and Buddhism painting.
Recently, these techniques are also used in modern craft productions.

Width：4.9cm
Weight：6g
*Leather cord is adjustable in length

Wood
Oxhide cord
Gold

KIRIKANE STUDIO KASEN

The Timeless Brilliance of Handcrafted Japanese cut-gold decoration

As you hold our creations, know that each piece is carefully handcrafted, with every strip of gold leaf meticulously applied one by one.

We hope that when you use our artwork, it will feel like a trusted companion, bringing a sense of reliability and warmth.
It would bring us great joy if you could enjoy our pieces in your own way, making them a part of your everyday life.

ARTISAN STORY

Kirikane Studio Kasen
We are developing products designed with the art of Japanese cut-gold decoration, based on the concept of “Bringing Brilliance to Your Present.”
The gold leaf used in Japanese cut-gold decoration is crafted from tarnish-resistant gold, ensuring that its beauty remains unchanged over time.

With its timeless elegance, Japanese cut-gold decoration enhances your present moment with even more brilliance.
Our seasonal designs allow you to experience the changing beauty of nature, bringing color and vibrancy to your life.

KIRIKANE / JAPANESE CUT-GOLD DECORATION

About 1,400 years ago / 600s / Asuka–Nara Period

Kirikane uses several sheets of gold or silver leaf fused together, then cut into hair-fine strips or tiny geometric pieces and adhered to a surface. The technique reached Japan with Buddhism and appears on Asuka- and Nara-period sculpture and painting. After declining, it was revived through Buddhist restoration and modern craft.

In Japan, kirikane is known as a form of “drawing with gold,” especially on the robes and halos of Buddhist images. Contemporary artists also apply it to boxes, glass, screens and independent artworks.

A single sheet of gold leaf is too thin to cut and handle reliably, so several sheets are first heat-bonded. Even then, strips can be less than a tenth of a millimeter wide. Static electricity on the tip of a bamboo tool helps lift and place them: the artist literally draws with solid gold rather than pigment.

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.