Fukuda Sakumi Keyaki Wood Jindai Lacquer Chinkin Lucky Gourd Single Flower Vase

Maker / Brand: Fukuda Sakumi Title of Work: Zelkova Jindai Lacquer 'Lucky Gourd' Single-Flower Vase with Chinkin Gold Inlay, by Fukuda Sakumi (Chadogu)

This exquisite Ichirin-zashi is a masterful creation by Fukuda Sakumi, a regular member of the Japan Craft Arts Association. Crafted from zelkova (keyaki) wood, it features a distinctive Jindai lacquer finish and detailed Chinkin gold inlay, presenting a unique "lucky gourd" (fukuhyo) form. It includes a removable metal insert, a paulownia wood box, and the artist's biography.

Artistic & Cultural Background The Chinkin technique, a traditional gold inlay method, is deeply rooted in Wajima's esteemed lacquerware tradition, renowned for its exquisite Wajima-nuri. This art form involves carving delicate lines into the lacquer surface and pressing gold leaf or powder into the incisions, creating shimmering patterns. The gourd shape, or "fukuhyo," is a timeless Japanese motif, symbolizing good fortune, prosperity, and longevity.

Design & Technique This piece showcases the sophisticated Jindai-nuri lacquer technique, highlighting the natural beauty of the zelkova wood grain (mokume) beneath a rich, dark finish. The Chinkin gold inlay is carefully applied, tracing elegant patterns that catch light and add luxurious depth. The interplay of dark lacquer, visible wood grain, and radiant gold creates striking visual harmony, embodying understated elegance.

Form & Aesthetic Qualities - Graceful Silhouette: A charming double-gourd (fukuhyo) form, a classic shape celebrated for auspicious symbolism and balanced proportions, lending refined elegance. - Subtle Texture: The Jindai lacquer finish offers a smooth, deep surface, subtly revealing the zelkova wood's natural grain, creating tactile and visual richness. - Luminous Inlay: Chinkin gold inlay provides a delicate yet striking shimmer, contrasting beautifully with the dark lacquer and drawing the eye to detailed details.

Collector & Decorative Appeal - Master Craftsmanship: Created by Fukuda Sakumi, a recognized Japan Craft Arts Association member, this piece represents the high standard of traditional Japanese lacquer artistry. - Cultural Significance: The auspicious gourd shape combined with the revered Wajima Chinkin technique makes this vase rich in cultural heritage and symbolic meaning. - Elegant Presentation: Presented in a traditional paulownia wood box with the artist's biography, it's an ideal acquisition for collectors of fine Japanese crafts or a sophisticated decorative accent.

This Ichirin-zashi is a perfect acquisition for those who appreciate the beauty and careful skill of traditional Japanese lacquerware, seeking to bring refined elegance into their space.

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