Yosegi


Yosegi-zaiku is a type of traditional Japanese marquetry which originated during Japan's culturally rich Edo period. It has become widely known and respected throughout the world. The mosaic work is made by making use of natural fine grains and textures of wood. Timbers of different colors are cut into oblong rods of desired sections. Spindle tree and Ilex macropoda are used for white, aged Katsura tree for black, Picrasma quassioides, mulberry and Chinese lacquer tree for yellow, camphor tree and Maackia for brown, black walnut for purple, Japanese cucumber tree for blue and Chinese cedar for red. The rods are then glued together to form the section of geometrical design pattern often called a seed plate. The seed plate is then either sliced into thin layers, which are glued onto boxes and other handicraft works or the entire plate is carved out to create a single piece. To add to the glaze and sturdiness of the surface, finishing coatings of lacquer are applied.
Yosegi are commonly found on the outside of Japanese secret boxes or puzzle boxes, but may also be used to create or decorate many other items such as trays, chests, jewelry boxes, vases, photo frames, drink coasters, etc.