明珍火箸風鈴

姫路の明珍火箸風鈴。甲冑師の末裔が製作。

Myochin-furin, a revered metalwork originating from Hyogo Prefecture in Japan's Kansai region, represents centuries of exquisite craftsmanship. This prefecturally designated craft is renowned for its unique sound and deep historical roots. The Myochin family, originally esteemed armorers for samurai warriors, transitioned their unparalleled ironworking skills to create everyday objects, with the furin, or wind chime, becoming one of their most celebrated creations. Their legacy of precision and mastery over metal continues to define this traditional Japanese craft. The distinctiveness of Myochin-furin lies in its material and the meticulous techniques employed. Artisans primarily utilize iron sourced from discarded hi-bashi, traditional fire chopsticks. This specific iron, known for its purity and resonant qualities, is painstakingly forged. Through precise hammering and shaping, the metal is carefully manipulated to achieve its optimal acoustic potential. The most remarkable technique, however, is the "tuning" process. Each furin is individually tuned by hand, with the craftsman striking the iron repeatedly and making minute adjustments until a perfectly clear, sustained, and ethereal tone is achieved. Culturally, furin symbolize the arrival of summer and offer a sense of coolness and tranquility. Myochin-furin elevates this tradition, producing a sound often described as pure, spiritual, and long-lasting, far beyond that of ordinary wind chimes. This exceptional resonance, a legacy of the Myochin family's mastery over metal, makes each piece not just a decorative item but a finely tuned instrument, deeply cherished for its aesthetic beauty and captivating melody. It stands as a testament to Hyogo's rich artisanal heritage and its enduring cultural significance.