Tamaki – The Storyteller of Kintsugi（Book)

This book is a poetic exploration of Japanese craftsmanship, traditional arts, kintsugi (the art of repairing broken pottery with Urushi and gold), and the harmonious relationship between nature and people.

Artisan Mio Heki, a skilled Urushiware artist, gently unravels the philosophy and practice of kintsugi, interweaving stories of nature and human hands.

The latter half of the book is a practical guide for those studying kintsugi or Urushi. It offers insights into the unique properties of Urushi, tools and materials used, as well as detailed step-by-step explanations of various kintsugi techniques.

Each book is exquisitely bound in the traditional wahon orihon (Japanese folding book) format, handcrafted by Kyoto artisans. The cover features a delicate leaf design inspired by the vein pattern of Urushi tree leaves from Tamba, Yakuno in Kyoto Prefecture—home to Tamba Urushi.

The text is presented in both Japanese and English.

Publication Date: January 2021
Author: Mio Heki
Publisher: Atelier hifumi
Specifications: 120 pages, full color, bilingual (Japanese & English)