The Kumiko acrylic lantern shade is a wooden lantern shade that combines the traditional Japanese craftsmanship known as “kumiko” (assembling wooden pieces without the use of nails) with acrylic material. This innovative creation is the result of a meticulous collaboration with skilled woodworking artisans from Ogawa Town, Saitama Prefecture, renowned for its joinery and Japanese washi paper. Crafted using Japanese cypress for the kumiko pattern, it showcases the intricate “hon-nejiri-gumi” technique, a sophisticated skill within the realm of kumiko craftsmanship. By intricately interlocking joints and sanding the acrylic, a soft and distinct illumination is achieved, enhancing the inherent beauty of the design and providing a soothing experience for those who admire it.
The wood and acrylic used are upcycled from leftover materials produced during the manufacturing of joinery, embodying an ethos of eco-friendly artistry. Additionally, replacing the acrylic box with handcrafted washi paper from Ogawa Town, designated as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, adds to the distinctive feel and invokes a sense of calm. When suspended on the included wooden brass stand, it generates an even more contemporary atmosphere.
This piece represents a Japanese modern creation that honors the traditional techniques passed down by our predecessors for over a millennium, adding vibrancy to everyday life in the present day.