Kyoto woodblock print Takezasado | Traditional techniques and craftsmanship

Kyoto woodblock prints | Takezasado special feature

 

Handrail woodblock prints, a traditional Kyoto technique that has been around for over 130 years.

Takezasado, which has a workshop in Pontocho, Kyoto, is a long-established woodblock printing studio with a history of over 130 years.
Woodblock printing is a traditional printing technique in which a wooden board is used as a block, paint is placed on it, and then rubbed onto washi paper. In Japan, prints are so familiar to Japanese culture that they even appear in educational settings as prints, and their soft lines and deep colors give a sense of warmth that machine printing lacks.

Carve a wood block and print with layers of colors. All processes are done by hand, and each piece is a one-of-a-kind work of art.
The unique texture of washi paper, the gentle texture of wooden blocks, and the atmosphere of Kyoto are all present in the work.

 

Traditional Japanese beauty created by printers

The ``surishi'' who complete the woodblock prints are craftsmen who repeatedly make minute adjustments while reading the color, humidity, and temperature.
The basic pigments are mixed, dissolved with glue, added to the paper, and printed according to the season. Techniques such as mica printing and shading are used to add depth and expression to the painting.
Each piece of work is created by the craftsman's breath and the sense of his hands. This is truly the essence of traditional Japanese crafts.

 

Two woodblock print artists who support Takezasado

Kenji Takenaka｜Depicting Kyoto with bold compositions and colors

 

Yuko Harada | Sensibility that fuses tradition and modernity

The 6th generation of Takezasado. With modern expressions that utilize continuous patterns, we are opening up new possibilities for woodblock prints.
He is active in many fields such as illustration and fabric design, and proposes ways to incorporate woodblock prints into modern life.

 

Kyoto art that is close to your daily life

All of Takezasado's woodblock prints are hand-made one-of-a-kind pieces. The size is slightly larger than a postcard, making it easy to display in small spaces such as living rooms, entrances, and hallways.
If you display it in your room, it will create a rich time that will make you feel like walking through the alleys of Kyoto.
It is also popular as a gift, and is perfect for important occasions such as housewarming gifts, wedding gifts, and moving gifts.

 

Takezasado, a place that weaves tradition and innovation

The history of Takezasado begins with Takenaka Woodblock, which was founded in 1891.
His attitude of continuing to challenge new expressions while inheriting old techniques has attracted many fans.
In addition to producing woodblock print artwork, we are currently engaged in activities that utilize traditional crafts in modern times, such as stationery, paper products, package design, and the restoration of old prints.
It is not just about "preserving tradition" but also about "creating new value." The spirit of Kyoto manufacturing resides in Takezasado's woodblock prints.

 

Kyoto handicrafts found at Fuwa Market

At Fuwa Market, we are introducing carefully selected handrail woodblock prints from Takezasado.
Our mission is to deliver the charm of traditional techniques and modern design to the world.
Just by displaying it in your room, you will feel like you are traveling through Kyoto.
Would you like to incorporate real handiwork into your daily life?