Who is Nakagawa Mamoru? A Living National Treasure in metalwork, Nakagawa revitalized the zōgan (metal inlay) technique by infusing color into a historically monochrome craft. Designated at just 56, he remains one of the youngest to hold this honor in Japan. His works—like Vase “Calm Sea”, Vase “Hayashi (Trees)”, and of course this one Vase "Rough Coast"—showcase exceptional skill and innovation.
Based in Kanazawa, Nakagawa studied the local Kaga inlay technique (originally developed in the seventeenth century) starting in 1974, under the well-known metal artist Takahashi Kaishū (1905–2004). In 2004 Nakagawa was recognized as a Living National Treasure for his mastery of chiseling (chōkin) and metal inlay (zōgan). Over the years he has revitalized and modernized the traditions of the art form. He uses numerous metal types and alloys to create a vibrant, dynamic surface through precisely cut and inlayed segments.
'Rough Coast' vase
cast alloy of copper, silver and tin with inlays of copper, silver and gold
2023
Nakagawa Mamoru (b.1947)
Japan
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