Tsuiki Copperware A Traditional Japanese Craft Whose History Still Endures

Tsuiki Copperware is a traditional Japanese craft that has been a cornerstone of Japanese metalwork for centuries, renowned for its intricate designs and the meticulous craftsmanship involved in its creation. Originating in Tsubame City, Niigata Prefecture, this art form continues to captivate audiences with its beauty and functionality.

Origins and History

Tsuiki Copperware has its roots in the Edo period, when artisans from Sendai introduced the technique of hammering copper to the local people of Tsubame. This method, known as "tsuiki," involves shaping copper by hand using various hammers and tools. The name "Gyokusendo," often associated with this craft, translates to "jewel copper mountain," reflecting the precious nature of the material and the skill involved in its crafting.

The Craftsmanship

The process of creating Tsuiki Copperware is highly labor-intensive and requires immense skill. Here are the key steps involved:

• Preparing the Base Metal: Artisans start by cutting a sheet of copper into the desired shape. This copper is typically about 1 centimeter thick.
• Annealing: The copper plate is heat-treated in a furnace to soften it, then cooled by plunging it into cold water. This process is repeated multiple times to achieve the desired malleability.
• Acid Cleaning: After heating, an oxide film forms on the copper surface. This is removed using a dilute sulfuric acid solution.
• Striking and Shaping: The copper plate is placed on a wooden block and struck along its edges to shape it into a three-dimensional form. This process involves repeated hammering and annealing to achieve the desired shape and thickness.
• Final Finishes: The copperware is then shaped using a toriguchi (anvil stake) and struck with an iron hammer to add fine adjustments and decorations. The surface is uniformly hammered to create a shiny, even finish.

Characteristics of Tsuiki Copperware

Tsuiki Copperware is distinguished by several key characteristics:

• Malleability and Durability: Copper is both malleable and durable, making it an ideal material for crafting intricate designs and functional items.
• Unique Beauty: Each piece of Tsuiki Copperware is unique due to the hand-hammering process. The surface of the copperware becomes smoother and shinier with repeated hammering, giving it a porcelain-like appearance.
• Aging Well: The texture and color of Tsuiki Copperware improve over time with proper care, making it a treasured possession for many.

Tools and Techniques

Artisans use a variety of tools to craft Tsuiki Copperware, including:

• Hammers: Up to 200 different hammers may be used, each serving a specific technical or decorative purpose.
• Toriguchi: A tool called toriguchi, or anvil stake, is used to shape the copperware. The term "toriguchi" comes from the Japanese words for "bird" and "mouth," reflecting its shape and function.
• Wooden and Metal Blocks: Special wooden blocks and metal tools are used to shape and hammer the copper into various forms.

Preservation and Legacy

Tsuiki Copperware has been recognized as a traditional craft by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, highlighting its cultural significance. The Tsubame Industrial Materials Museum showcases the artisan metalwork of the region, including Tsuiki Copperware, and offers workshops where visitors can try their hand at traditional metalworking techniques.

Practical Use and Care

Tsuiki Copperware is not just decorative; it is also functional. Items such as kettles, teapots, and vases are made for everyday use. The copper material is ideal for cooking and serving, as it can react with food to enhance flavors. For example, copper teapots are said to make tea taste milder due to metal ion reactions.

To preserve Tsuiki Copperware, it is essential to care for it properly. The artisans at Gyokusendo offer repair services for damaged pieces, ensuring that these treasures can be enjoyed for generations to come.

Visiting Tsubame City

For those interested in experiencing Tsuiki Copperware firsthand, Tsubame City in Niigata Prefecture is a must-visit destination. The city is accessible by the Shinkansen bullet train from Tokyo, and the Tsubame Industrial Materials Museum is a key attraction. Here, visitors can see the most highly appraised Tsuiki Copperware on display and learn about the techniques and history behind this traditional craft.