Morihito Katsura
About
Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property “Chokin (Metal Engraving)”
Morihito Katsura is a master metal engraver renowned for his exceptional skill in the traditional Japanese art of metalwork.
He is widely recognized as one of the leading figures in contemporary Japanese metal craftsmanship.
While faithfully preserving traditional techniques such as hammering, inlay, and colored metal decoration, he continuously explores new forms of expression and design — breathing life into metal through his artistry.
His works have earned high acclaim both in Japan and abroad, and are held in numerous exhibitions and museum collections.
Biography
- 1944 Born in Tokyo
- 1960 Began apprenticeship under his father, Moriyuki
- 1966 Graduated from Tokyo Metropolitan Kōgei High School, Department of Metal Crafts
- 1971 First acceptance at the 18th Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition
- 1992 Created sacred treasures for Ise Grand Shrine reconstruction (also in 2008)
- 2008 Designated as Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property “Chōkin” (Metal Engraving)
- 2010 Cultural Agency produced craft technique documentary film “Chōkin – The Art of Katsura Morihito”
- 2015 Awarded Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette
- 2018 “Living National Treasure Katsura Morihito: World of Metal Crafts Exhibition” at Nerima Art Museum
- 2022 Created replica restoration of Kasuga Taisha National Treasure, exhibited at “Kasuga Taisha Wakamiya National Treasure Exhibition” at Nara National Museum
- 2023 “Pokémon✖️Crafts Exhibition” at National Museum of Modern Art, Crafts Gallery (Kanazawa)
Portfolio
Nara Yakushiji Temple National Treasure East Suien Repair Surplus Material “Total Silence Incense Burner” ｜Morihito Katsura
Guidance “Tiger beetle” Covered Vessel｜Morihito Katsura
This piece expresses the tiger beetle that guides one to a tranquil place.
2024
Chased Bowl “Snail”｜Morihito Katsura
2024
Flower Vase with Barley Design｜Morihito Katsura
