I-RO-HA
Since ancient times, Buddhist altars(Butsudan) have been placed in the most important room of the house and have been cherished. It is decorated with pictures of ancestors and flowers and has been a place to pray for the health of the family and to recite daily wishes. It also provides a time for people to reflect on themselves habitually.
Buddhist altars(Butsudan)are made through various processes by many craftsmen. Mr. Kushida, the third generation of Chiyodaya, has long been involved in lacquering, Roiro (gold) coloring, and assembly. He also focuses on restoration work for temples.
We have produced the vanity box “I-RO-HA” by utilizing our abundant knowledge and skilled techniques cultivated over the years.
“I-RO-HA” is named after the Japanese word “iroha,” which means the basics of things or procedures.
Also, the “I” in I-RO-HA stands for intimate, “Ro” for routine, and “Ha” for harmony. They represent our hope that you will spend time reflecting on and having a dialogue with yourself. Available in three different sizes, the vanity boxes comes with a mirror, a lid/door, or a drawer, allowing you to combine them in a variety of ways to suit your needs and preferences.
Enjoy using them as part of your daily routine. It will become an important time to harmonize your inner mind.
Technique:
“Original Lacquer Technique with Black Sand Finish”
This is a original lacquer coating method developed by Chiyodaya using traditional materials. It creates a unique texture like black sand.
“Lacquer Coating Using Pure Gold Powder with Roiro Finish”
This technique is performed by sprinkling pure gold powder partially during the lacquering process, applying coats of lacquer over and over, and polishing the surface to make it shiny.
“Kazari Kanagu (Decorative Metal Fixtures)”
This is a process of engraving or carving a design on a copper plate according to the position where they are to be installed.
The designs are made using “Tagane (chisels),” tools made of hardened iron.
Chisels have various patterns, and the ideal design is carved by combining them.
For the decorative metal fixtures of this product, the Nanako design is adopted, which is simple but requires sophisticated skills to achieve perfection.
“Lacquering”
Lacquer has the property of hardening and becoming transparent as it ages, so it is stronger after years of use than immediately after it is applied. It is strongest 20 years after application.
In addition, it is a very robust and excellent coating method with very strong properties such as antiseptic, waterproof, mothproof, chemical resistant, antibacterial, and insulating.
Product Information for Catalog:
I: Vanity box with mirror
RO (Lid): Vanity box with lid
RO (Door): Vanity box with door
HA: Vanity box with drawer
(Each sold separately.)