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Information
This item is handcrafted by skilled artisans. If it is out of stock, production may take some time. If you are in a hurry, please check availability before placing your order.
About Design
Please note that each piece is slightly different due to its handmade nature. The placement of the gold and silver elements may vary and may not be exactly as shown in the photos.
Description
A Surface Woven with Ivy — Gold & Silver in Endless Elegance
This is an original Kyo-Zogan cufflink from the Kyoto Handicraft Center, handcrafted by skilled artisans in our in-house workshop. Featuring the "Sogan" (fully covered) technique, pure 24K gold and sterling silver ivy motifs are packed tightly across the entire iron surface — a sophisticated pattern that speaks of timeless refinement.
The making of each piece:
- Iron base is precisely engraved with a cloth-weave texture
- Pure gold and silver are hand-inlaid into the surface
- Lacquer is applied and kiln-baked, layer by layer
- The piece is soaked in nitric acid to reveal the design
- Surface is polished, then delicate shading is added by hand
Look closely and you will find each tiny ivy leaf rendered with extraordinary precision — a testament to the patience and mastery of Kyoto's craftsmen.
An exceptional gift for men who appreciate Japanese artistry.
What is "Kyoto Damascene"?
Our damascene craft is known as Kyo Zogan (Kyoto Damascene).
Kyo Zogan is a traditional Kyoto handicraft created by carving a cloth-weave inlay texture onto thin iron sheets, inlaying pure gold and silver designs onto the textured surface, applying lacquer over it, and then adding fine hatching onto the gold and silver designs after polishing.
Zogan originated in Damascus, Syria, and is said to have been brought to Kyoto in the 8th century via the Silk Road. Over time, the process of carving the cloth-weave texture, inlaying pure gold and silver, applying lacquer, and baking was repeated and refined into the unique technique called Kyo Zogan.
After the 16th century, swordsmith families such as Umetada and Shoami advanced the technique for use as ornamentation on swords, developing Kyo Zogan into a refined and elegant art form.
When the age of the warriors ended, Zogan began to be used for industrial artworks and personal item decoration. Today, it is highly regarded as one of Kyoto's representative traditional industrial arts.
【Specification】
・Material / Design part: Iron, Gold (24K), Sterling silver / The back of the cufflinks: Gold plated (brass nickel base)
・Size: W2.0 × H1.3 × D1.5 cm
・Weight: 50 g
・Made in Japan
Product Type: CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES
Collection: FASHION ACCESSORIES > JEWELRY
Collection: KYO-ZOGAN (DAMASCENE)
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: 2 - 5 days
Small islands and remote areas: 2weeks - 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.
Payment & Security
Your payment information is processed securely. We do not store credit card details nor have access to your credit card information.
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 by your local customs authority, we do not offer gift wrapping. For more information, please refer to our Shipping Policy.