Description
Kyo-Zogan — Kyoto's Ancient Art of Gold & Silver Inlay
Kyo-Zogan (京象嵌) is one of Kyoto's most revered traditional crafts. Its origins trace back to Damascus, Syria, from where the technique traveled the Silk Road to reach Kyoto in the 8th century. Over the centuries, Kyoto artisans transformed it into something entirely their own: a meticulous process of carving a cloth-weave texture into thin iron sheets, inlaying pure gold and silver, applying lacquer, and finally engraving fine hatching into the precious metal surface to create depth and luminosity.
After the 16th century, master sword smiths of the Umetada and Shoami lineages elevated Kyo-Zogan into an art of supreme refinement — adorning the finest samurai swords with its characteristic elegance. Today, it stands as one of Kyoto's most celebrated traditional industrial art forms.
▶ Watch the Kyo-Zogan manufacturing process
Ornamental Katana Sword Guard — "Bamboo"
This Tsuba (sword guard) is a work of art by Okuda Yuji, a craftsman of Kyoto Handicraft Center. Crafted entirely by hand, the surface is inlaid with pure 24k gold and sterling silver in an intricate bamboo motif, then engraved with fine hatching lines that give the design a striking three-dimensional quality. As light shifts across the surface, the bamboo comes alive — each angle revealing a new expression of the pattern.
In Japanese culture, bamboo is a symbol of vitality, resilience, and good fortune. Its unwavering strength and graceful form have long been associated with noble character and auspicious energy — making this piece a meaningful gift as well as a work of beauty.
Displayed in a living room or reception space, this Tsuba commands quiet attention — a conversation piece that carries centuries of Kyoto craftsmanship.
Specification
- Materials: Iron, 24k gold, sterling silver
- Size: W7.5cm × L8cm × T0.2cm
- Weight: 200g
- Craftsman: Okuda Yuji, Kyoto Handicraft Center
- Origin: Japan (Kyoto)
Each piece is individually handcrafted. Slight variations in pattern and finish are a natural expression of the artisan's hand.
Quick Shipping Guide
【Delivery date】
Please be aware that customs clearance times may vary depending on the country and the product.
USA, UK, and Europe: 3 - 7 days
Canada, Australia, and New Zealand: 3 - 10 days
Asia: 3 - 7 days
Small islands and remote areas: 2 weeks - 1 month
【Customs】
Customs duties may apply depending on the delivery destination.
Please check the Shipping Policy before you purchase. Regulations may change without notice due to global circumstances.
U.S.A.
All products are subject to a minimum 15% duty, except for U.S. customers where duties are included in the price.
UK
All commercial goods valued at £135 or more will be subject to UK VAT.
Europe
All commercial goods will be subject to VAT, regardless of their value. Customs duties may apply to items valued over €150.
Please Confirm Before Purchase:
We do not accept returns or exchanges due to customer reasons. Please be careful when selecting the size and type.
Shipping Policy
For more information on customs duties, please refer to the Shipping Policy above.
Payment & Security
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Customs Clearance Fees
If your destination address is outside Japan, you will be responsible for any fees, duties, or taxes required by the local authorities. These are outside our control and are NOT included in the purchase price.
Gift Wrapping Is Not Available
Since your parcel may be opened at the customs clearance, we do not offer gift wrapping. For more information, please refer to our Shipping Policy.