Kanazawa Gold Leaf
MetalworkHokuriku
Price range
¥500 ~ ¥50,000
Over 99% of Japan's gold leaf is produced in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture.
Kanazawa gold leaf (kinpaku) production in Ishikawa Prefecture accounts for over 99% of all gold leaf made in Japan. The craft of hammering gold into sheets as thin as 1/10,000th of a millimeter has flourished in Kanazawa since the late 16th century, aided by the city's humid climate which prevents the ultra-thin sheets from cracking. Gold leaf is applied to Buddhist altars, temple decorations, lacquerware, ceramics, and increasingly to contemporary art and cuisine.
At a Glance
- Craft Type
- metalwork
- Region
- Hokuriku
- Materials
- Gold, silver, copper alloy
- Designation
- national traditional
- Price Range
- ¥500–¥50000
Materials
Gold, silver, copper alloy
Techniques
Repeated hammering and cutting
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of craft is Kanazawa Gold Leaf?
Kanazawa Gold Leaf is a traditional Japanese metalwork craft.
What materials are used to make Kanazawa Gold Leaf?
Kanazawa Gold Leaf is made using Gold, silver, copper alloy.
Is Kanazawa Gold Leaf a designated traditional craft?
Yes, Kanazawa Gold Leaf holds the National Traditional Craft designation.
Where does Kanazawa Gold Leaf originate from?
Kanazawa Gold Leaf originates from Hokuriku, Japan.
What techniques are used to make Kanazawa Gold Leaf?
The techniques used include: Repeated hammering and cutting.
How much does Kanazawa Gold Leaf cost?
Kanazawa Gold Leaf is typically priced between ¥500 and ¥50000.
Is Kanazawa Gold Leaf a good souvenir from Japan?
Kanazawa Gold Leaf is a popular traditional Japanese craft that makes an excellent souvenir.
What makes Kanazawa Gold Leaf unique?
Kanazawa Gold Leaf is distinguished by its Repeated hammering and cutting techniques and Gold, silver, copper alloy materials.
How is Kanazawa Gold Leaf traditionally used?
Kanazawa Gold Leaf is a traditional Japanese metalwork craft with both practical and decorative applications.