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Shunsuke Wada

WABORI ART PANEL Skull

WABORI ART PANEL Skull

$628.00 USD
$628.00 USD
Sale Sold out

This exclusive WABORI ART PANEL is meticulously handcrafted in Takaoka at the studio of artisan Wada-san, employing time-honored Japanese metal engraving techniques.

Chokin, or metal engraving, is a traditional craft in which artisans use tools such as chisels to carve, emboss, and decorate metal surfaces, creating intricate and beautiful motifs. Each engraving is made by applying rhythmic and even pressure with every strike, transforming the inorganic surface into a unique and elegant work of art. The result reflects refined skill and the warmth of handcrafted workmanship.

The skull symbolizes the impermanence and change of life. Its depiction of death reminds us that we need to live life meaningfully and not waste it. It has been a popular motif as a lucky charm since the time of the samurai, and has been used by ukiyo-e artists and in kabuki costumes. It is said to give the strength to overcome fear and start a new life.

The panel itself is also an artisan craftwork, colored using oxidation techniques on metal. The black base is achieved through a process of rust development, black lacquer coating, and hand-polishing with straw, all completed by expert craftspeople.

Dimensions: 14.9cm x 21cm x 2.5cm. To highlight the expressive chisel-carved edges, the panel is designed to hang directly on the wall without glass or acrylic framing, allowing viewers to fully appreciate its crafted details.

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Care Instructions

This piece is not framed with acrylic or other materials, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty of the brass. Over time, the color of brass deepens and develops a unique texture. Enjoy this change as part of the material's charm.

Daily Care

  • Gently dust the surface with a soft, dry cloth.
  • If light stains are noticeable, lightly wipe with a slightly damp cloth, then immediately wipe dry to remove any remaining moisture.

Caution

  • Frequent direct contact with the brass surface can easily leave fingerprints and oils. If this is a concern, we recommend wearing white gloves.
  • When caring for this piece, do not use abrasive cloths, chemical detergents, alcohol, thinner, etc.
  • Enjoy this piece in a stable indoor environment, avoiding high temperatures, humidity, and direct sunlight. Outdoor installation is not recommended.

Shipping & Returns

  • Product ships from Japan via EMS priority shipping.
  • All sales are final. In the case of any damage in transit, we are happy to replace the product free of charge.

  • Techniques

    Chōkin (Metal Engraving) is a traditional metalworking technique in which tools such as chisels (tagane) are used to carve, emboss, or decorate the surface of metal, creating intricate and beautiful designs.

    Tagane Chōkin is done by striking steel chisels with a hammer to carve patterns directly into the metal. By carefully concentrating and applying an even, rhythmic force with each strike, the engraver transforms the inorganic surface into one filled with unique and graceful patterns. The result is a work that conveys both refined craftsmanship and the warmth of handwork.

  • Features

    For people all over the world who are interested in Japanese culture, I wanted to create something special that focuses on important Japanese themes such as manga, anime, temples and shrines. So I created art panels using engraving techniques with motifs of the Hannya, dragon, phoenix, skull and tiger. Each motif represents a symbol of protection from evil, prosperity, rebirth, hard work and courage.

  • Wish

    These motifs are all found in traditional temple decorations and Japanese tattoo designs, and they also appear in famous manga and anime like Dragon Ball and Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba. Through these items, I hope to share both traditional and pop culture with people around the world who share an interest and love for all aspects of Japanese culture.