Last month, we attended the launch of the compelling and beautifully-presented, new book “Mitsuro Hikime” by Kumiko Kihara & Elsa Tierney and we were absolutely thrilled to play a very small role in the event by showcasing three of the wonderful Japanese, Meiji-era metalworks that feature in the publication.

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The evening, which took place at the Goldsmiths’ Centre here in London, saw Kumiko and Elsa introduce Mitsuro Hikime and discuss the fascinating journey that the co-authors embarked on in writing the book.

Mitsuro Hikime is a traditional Japanese wax-sculpting technique that harnesses the natural properties of wax to create elegant, organic forms, cast in metal for jewellery and sculpture. The process involves creating a special wax recipe, warming it and then pulling, stretching and folding repeatedly to form natural, flowing lines.

Historically, the technique was referred to as Saikuro, meaning “detail wax”, or Tebineri-ro, meaning “kneaded wax”. The term Mitsuro (Honey wax) Hikime (Pulled lines) was introduced later, as the technique began to be applied to jewellery making.

These textured wax forms are then used in lost wax casting to produce beautiful jewellery and sculptures and each piece is inherently unique due to the organic behaviour of the wax. It is impossible to replicate the same pattern twice.

Last year, whilst researching the book, Kumiko and Elsa visited our Islington galleries after discovering a pair of vases on our website that appeared to have been made using the technique. During their visit, we identified a number of pieces that incorporated elements of the process, as well as one larger vase that was a particularly clear example of Mitsuro Hikime in its purest form.

The book explores the history and cultural significance of Mitsuro Hikime and offers a first-hand insight into the process. Featuring detailed techniques, artisan perspectives and striking examples, (including some pieces from our collection of Meiji-era metalwork) it serves as both a practical guide and a tribute to this enduring art form.

You can find out more about Mitsuro Hikime by Clicking Here or on the image below.

We hope you found this short-read article of interest. You can find over 150 blogs and stories inspired by our collection of Chinese and Japanese Fine Art and Antiques by Clicking Here. 

You can also browse through over 30 pages of masterful Meiji-era metalwork by Clicking Here.