Honjo Suzu New!

The Honjo Suizao is considered one of the finest examples of Japanese lacquer craftsmanship in the world. The intricate designs and patterns, combined with the exceptional skill and attention to detail of the artisans, make these screens a masterclass in artistic technique. The screens are a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the Japanese artisans of the time, who were able to bring together multiple artistic disciplines, such as carving, inlaying, and painting, to create something truly remarkable.

Master bell caster Kenji Hoshino (b. 1954) produced the first faithful replica in 2012, verified by acoustic fingerprinting. His workshop sells modern Honjo-style suzu for ¥50,000–¥300,000 ($330–$2,000), each with a certificate of authenticity. These are classified by Japan’s Agency for Cultural Affairs as Important Tangible Folk Cultural Properties . honjo suzu

From 1980 onward, traditional foundries in Kawaguchi (Saitama Prefecture) attempted to reverse-engineer Honjo suzu. The key challenges were: The Honjo Suizao is considered one of the

After 1868, rapid Westernization led to a decline in traditional foundry arts. The Great Kantō Earthquake (1923) destroyed most remaining Honjo workshops, and by 1945, the bombing of Tokyo obliterated virtually all pre-Meiji Honjo suzu. As of 2023, only seven authenticated Edo-period Honjo suzu exist in museum collections worldwide (three in Tokyo, two in Kyoto, one in London’s V&A, and one in Boston’s MFA). Master bell caster Kenji Hoshino (b