Do you know that the intricate Sashimono techniques used in Japanese furniture manufacture are closely related to its beauty?
In this article, we explain in detail how these pieces of furniture have been useful in daily life and have provided beauty, through an examination of the origins and types of Japanese furniture, the history and characteristics of Sashimono techniques, and specific examples of furniture.
1. What is Japanese Furniture?
As the term suggests, Japanese furniture refers to furniture that is used in Japanese-style rooms, and was developed as far back as the Nara period (710-784 AD).
In this section, we will explain how Japanese furniture evolved and what types there are.
1.1 The History of Japanese Furniture
Japanese furniture is a style of furniture that has evolved over the long history of Japan.
It has existed since the Nara period, with a particularly diverse range of forms and techniques developed during the Edo period (1603-1868).
Designed to suit Japan's lifestyle and culture, Japanese furniture has an ethnic feel designs reflect a distinctive aesthetic.
Japanese furniture is also optimized for traditional Japanese homes and living environments, combining decorative beauty with functionality.
1.2 Main Types of Japanese Furniture and Their Uses
|
Types of Furniture |
Purpose |
Special Features |
|
Tansu |
Clothing Storage |
Characterized by beautiful wood grain and smooth drawer motion. Designed to harmonize with tatami mats and shoji screens in traditional Japanese homes, with the living room setting in mind. |
|
Shoji |
Room Partition |
Allows natural light in while maintaining privacy. Preserves the atmosphere of a Japanese-style room while also being highly functional. |
2. Sashimono Techniques Overview
Sashimono technique (wood joinery) refer to traditional Japanese woodworking methods of precisely processing and joining wood to create products.
These techniques have been widely used in making Japanese furniture such as chests, Shoji screens, shelves, and desks.
Without using adhesives or metal fittings, the items are assembled solely through intricate wood joinery, that requires high structural strength and aesthetic appeal.
Source: 【廣兼家具店】木の美しさを活かしきる職人の技 | いいものしまね
2.1 Development of Sashimono Techniques
Sashimono techniques have a history spanning several hundred years, with skills becoming increasingly specialized and refined over time.
During the Edo period, craftsmen developed various new techniques, enabling more intricate craftsmanship. In this era, craftsmen honed their skills in selecting wood according to weather and seasonal conditions, and employing Japanese joinery methods tailored to the unique properties of each type of wood.
2.2 Evolution of Sashimono Techniques and Their Main Uses
|
Period |
Technical Evolution |
Main Uses |
|
Heian Period (794-1185) |
In the formative early period, basic wood joinery techniques were established. |
Palace architecture, Temple and shrine architecture |
|
Edo Period (1603-1868) |
Technical innovations led to the development of diverse joinery techniques and intricate decorative woodworking. |
Tea room architecture, Samurai residences, Common households |
|
Modern Period |
While retaining traditional techniques, their application has expanded into modern design. |
Modern furniture, Public facilities |
3. Characteristics of Sashimono Techniques in Japanese Furniture
As mentioned in the introduction, it’s no exaggeration to say that Japanese furniture exists thanks to the development of Sashimono techniques.
Also, the production methods are highly valued from an ecological perspective even in modern times.
Here, we will introduce how Sashimono techniques have influenced Japanese furniture.
3.1 Techniques Pursuing Precision and Beauty
Sashimono techniques involve precisely processing the ends of wood pieces and joining them together without using nails or adhesives.
This joinery is executed with such precision that the joints are nearly imperceptible, and over time the wooden components naturally integrate as one.
As a result, Japanese furniture excels in durability and is often passed down across generations.
3.1.1 Arigumizugi
Source: 木になる話 | 半布里工房
Arigumizugi is a method that involves precisely shaping wooden pieces to create multiple protruding tongues (tenons) and corresponding recesses (mortises). These interlocking elements are then joined to form a strong and durable connection.
It is called "ari-kumi" (ant-interlocking) because the interlocking parts resemble an ant's head.
3.1.2 Tsutsumi Arigumizugi
Source: ルーターと鎬鑿（しのぎのみ）を使った包み蟻組継の制作 | WOOD STUDIO KUZES
Tsutsumi Arigumizugi is used for sleek designs. It is commonly employed to join the front panel and side panels of drawers. When the drawer is opened, the joinery is visible, showcasing the quality of craftsmanship.
3.1.3 Tenbin Sashitsugi
Source: 木になる話 | 半布里工房
Among the interlocking Arigumizugi joints, tenbin sashitsugi refers to those where the tenon base is extremely thin.
Unlike standard Arigumizugi, the design resembles the hanging ropes of a basket suspended from a balancing scale, hence the name "tenbin (scale) sashi (insertion)."
While Tenbin Sashi can be machine-made, larger components or those with very thin tenon bases are often handcrafted requiring skilled handiwork.
3.2 Main Materials Used
|
Material Name |
Characteristics |
Usage Examples |
|
Kiri (Paulownia） |
Lightweight, moisture-resistant, and colorfast |
Japanese Kiri Tansu, Paulownia boxes |
|
Hinoki (Japanese cypress) |
Highly resistant to rot and water, and has a pleasant aroma |
Bath chairs, building materials for shrines and temples |
|
Chestnut |
Hard and durable, and becomes more beautiful with age |
Flooring, Japanese furniture |
3.3 Harmony with the Environment
In joinery, sustainable and environmentally friendly manufacturing methods are emphasized.
They are committed to using materials that are as close to their natural state as possible, and avoid the use of chemicals as much as possible.
This makes the products environmentally friendly and less likely to cause allergic reactions. This sustainable approach is particularly appreciated by eco-conscious consumers.
4. Examples of Representative Joinery Furniture
4.1 "Cha Tansu" (Tea Chests)
The image shows a technique called "tenbinzashi" (balance-beam join). This is a strong joint that applies a clamping force and prevents slippage.
Source: 指物とは | 藤田商店
Tea chests, used to store tea utensils, are a culmination of fine joinery techniques. They are characterized by the materials chosen to protect the tea utensils from moisture, particularly the meticulous construction.
|
Material |
Characteristics |
Uses |
Technical Details |
|
Paulownia (Kiri) |
Lightweight and moisture resistant |
Storing tea utensils |
Paulownia wood has moisture-regulating properties and can be finely worked |
|
Chestnut |
Sturdy and beautiful grain |
Also used as high-quality furniture |
Chestnut wood is hard enough for fine carving, making it suitable for decorative furniture |
4.2 "Shoji"
This image depicts a technique called "shikizaan". As a result of preventing the Kamachi (stile) from making direct contact with the ground, the Shoji (sliding paper door) can glide more smoothly and damage to the Kengu (building fixtures) will be minimised.
Source: 指物屋とは | 加門建具店
Shoji screens, indispensable in traditional Japanese houses, allow soft light to enter the interior and provide privacy. Shoji paper can be replaced, making it easy to customize to suit the user's lifestyle.
|
Material |
Characteristics |
Uses |
|
Wooden frame (mainly Paulownia or Cedar) |
Lightweight and easy to work with |
Room dividers |
|
Shoji paper |
Diffuses light and creates a soft lighting environment |
Privacy and decoration |
4.3 Japanese Paulownia Chests of Drawers (Kiritansu)
Paulownia chests, developed to protect clothing from moisture, are known for the natural humidity control function of the material they are made from.
The unique odor also has an insect repellent effect, making them ideal furniture for long-term clothing storage.
|
Material |
Characteristics |
Main Uses |
|
Paulownia (Kiri) |
Lightweight, durable, and has a moisture-regulating effect |
Storing kimonos and other important clothings |
5. Summary
We hope you have gained a deeper understanding of Japanese furniture's beauty and practicality through this article. If you have the opportunity to come into contact with Japanese furniture, please take a look at the joinery techniques and appreciate the traditional furniture of Japan.
Visit our furniture product page to explore the beauty of Japanese era-inspired design for your own space.
We also have an Instagram page for some Japanese-style interior design inspirations.
