Metal hammering (tankin) is a traditional technique that creates beautiful crafts and practical items by hammering metal into shape. It has long been used for weapons, tea ceremony utensils, and decorative items. Metal hammering works, carefully crafted one by one by artisans, possess a unique warmth and profound presence. One of its attractions is that the metal gains strength as it’s repeatedly hammered into shape, and the appeal deepens with use.
This article explains the basic knowledge of metal hammering, its historical development, and the creation process in detail. We also introduce how to enjoy it in daily life and maintenance methods, so please read until the end if you want to learn more about the charm of metal hammering.
What is Metal Hammering? Explaining Basic Knowledge and Appeal
Metal hammering (tankin) is a technique that creates beautiful crafts and practical items by hammering metal into shape. Repeatedly hammering metal increases its strength and allows for smooth curves and delicate decorations.
In Japan, it has been used for weapons, tea ceremony utensils, Buddhist implements, and decorative items since ancient times. The individual differences inherent in handwork and the unique charm of one-of-a-kind pieces are also part of metal hammering’s appeal. Here, we’ll explain in detail the history of metal hammering, its differences from metal casting, and its beauty.
The History and Background of Metal Hammering’s Development
Metal hammering techniques have developed worldwide since ancient times. In Egyptian and Mesopotamian civilizations, techniques for hammering gold and copper to create decorative items and ceremonial vessels were established. In Japan, bronze and iron implements were produced during the Yayoi period, but the main processing technique at that time was casting, and the full-fledged development of metal hammering techniques is considered to have occurred after the Nara period.
From the Heian period to the Muromachi period, in addition to Buddhist implements and decorative items, the production of weapons and sword fittings developed. Metal hammering was used as a decorative technique for sword guards (tsuba) and fittings (fuchigashira), along with metal carving and inlay. During the Edo period, with the spread of the tea ceremony, metal crafts such as tea kettles and tea utensils were created, and sophisticated works combining metal carving and inlay were produced.
After the Meiji period, while Western metal processing techniques were introduced and industrialization progressed, traditional metal hammering techniques were passed down as handwork by artisans. In recent years, their value for cultural property restoration and as artistic works has increased, attracting attention both domestically and internationally.
Reference: The History of Japanese Metalwork Decorated with Gold|Government Public Relations Online
Differences and Characteristics Between Metal Casting and Metal Hammering
Both metal hammering (tankin) and metal casting (chukin) are metal processing techniques, but there are significant differences in their production methods and finishes.
Metal hammering (tankin) is a technique where metal plates or rods are shaped by striking them with a metal or wooden hammer. Hammering increases the metal’s strength, enabling a thin and light finish. This technique allows for delicate decorations through handwork and is considered a craft that directly reflects the artisan’s skill.
On the other hand, metal casting (chukin) is a technique where metal is melted at high temperatures, poured into a mold, and cooled and solidified. This allows for one-piece molding and is suitable for creating works with complex shapes. It is therefore used for large works such as Buddha statues, bells, and tea kettles, with a characteristic weighty and powerful impression in the finish.
The appeal of metal hammering is that it allows for detailed processing and decoration by hand, reflecting the artisan’s individuality. Metal casting has the advantage of enabling mass production using the same mold and achieving precise modeling. The appropriate technique is chosen according to the purpose and objective.
The Appeal and Beauty of Metal Hammering
The appeal of metal hammering lies in the unique texture created by repeatedly hammering metal into shape and the graceful curved beauty. By using hammers and chisels to transform metal, works with different expressions are created one by one.
Metals processed by metal hammering may retain hammer marks (tsuchime). These are patterns that appear on the surface as traces of hammer strikes, resulting in a beautiful finish that shows different expressions depending on how light hits it. The impression of the work changes greatly depending on the size and arrangement of the hammer marks, creating different personalities for each artisan.
Another attraction of metal hammering is enjoying different textures and feelings depending on the type of metal used. Silver and brass in particular can maintain a beautiful luster when polished, while iron can enjoy the deep changes due to oxidation.
Furthermore, metal hammering techniques are widely used in practical items. A characteristic is that many works are thin and light, making them easy to use daily, such as tea utensils, tableware, and accessories. Metal hammering works combined with modern designs are also increasing, creating new styles of products while utilizing traditional techniques.
In this way, metal hammering is a technique that creates works with delicate beauty and functionality while utilizing the characteristics of metal. By knowing its history and technology, you can enjoy the appeal of metal hammering more deeply.
Representative Techniques and Types of Metal Hammering
Metal hammering is a technique that allows for diverse expressions by hammering metal into shape. While utilizing the characteristics of metal, delicate decorations and unique textures are created through artisans’ handwork.
From traditional techniques to new challenges in response to contemporary designs, metal hammering technology continues to evolve. Here, we’ll explain in detail the types of representative techniques and their respective characteristics.
Types of Traditional Metal Hammering Techniques
There are various techniques in metal hammering that utilize the characteristics of metal. In Japan, they have been applied to the production of weapons, tea ceremony utensils, and decorative items. Representative techniques include uchidashi (raising), shibori (sinking), zogan (inlay), and tsuchime finishing.
Uchidashi (Raising)
This is a technique where metal sheets are hammered to partially stretch the base metal and form three-dimensional shapes. It is often used for tea utensils and decorative items, characterized by designs with three-dimensional effects.
Shibori (Sinking)
This is a technique where metal sheets are hammered while converting surface area into thickness to raise three-dimensional forms. It is suitable for creating vases and vessels.
Zogan (Inlay)
This is a technique where different metals are inlaid into the surface of metal to create patterns. It is often applied to sword fittings and decorative items and requires advanced craftsmanship.
Tsuchime Finishing
This is a technique where beautiful hammer marks are engraved by hammering the material with a metal hammer. Due to light reflection, it results in works with simple yet profound beauty.
By utilizing these techniques, metal hammering works combine diverse expressions with functionality.
The Raising Technique and Its Characteristics
The raising technique is one of the representative techniques of metal hammering, a method of creating three-dimensional shapes by hammering metal sheets with a hammer or wooden mallet. Metals such as iron, copper, brass, and silver are used, and by hammering, the metal is stretched to create unique three-dimensional effects and expressions.
The characteristic of this technique is that by directly working with the metal, works with soft curves and the warmth of handwork can be created. Additionally, it’s possible to adjust the thickness of the metal subtly while shaping, allowing for a lightweight finish while maintaining strength. Therefore, it is used for many works where ease of holding and use are required, such as tea ceremony utensils, sake vessels, and accessories.
Furthermore, by using a chisel to engrave patterns on the surface, it’s possible to enhance decorativeness. In modern times, there are increasing numbers of artisans seeking new designs and uses while utilizing traditional raising techniques, and they are being applied to modern design cutlery, tableware, jewelry, and more.
The Creation Process and Artisan Skills of Metal Hammering
Metal hammering is a technique that creates beautiful and delicate crafts and practical items by hammering metal into shape. Until one work is completed, there are various processes from metal selection to shaping and decoration, with advanced skills required from artisans at each stage. Here, we’ll explain in detail the creation process and artisan skills of metal hammering.
Metal Selection and Preparation for Processing
The creation of metal hammering begins with the selection of appropriate metal. As the texture and ease of processing differ by material, making a choice according to use and design is important.
Representative metals include copper, brass, silver, iron, and titanium. Copper is easy to process, with the appeal of texture changes over time. Brass is characterized by durability and beautiful gold color, suitable for tea ceremony utensils and decorative items. Silver has a luxurious feel and creates a unique luster when polished. Iron has a profound presence and allows for enjoyment of texture changes due to rust.
After deciding on the metal, preparations for processing are made. The metal is cut to an appropriate size, and a heating process called “annealing” is performed to soften the metal and make it easier to shape. By repeating this process, the metal is given flexibility while being hammered into shape.
The Metal Hammering Process
- Heating: Heat with a burner to about 600-700°C.
- Raising: Place on a wooden stand’s concave part and hammer.
- Sinking: Hammer on a stake that matches the curve.
- Finishing: Complete the shape by hammering tens of thousands of times while using different tools.
Metal hammering works created in this way are characterized by being thin, light, and durable. The range of expression also expands, from smooth finishes to intentionally leaving hammer marks to add flavor.
Metal hammering techniques are widely used in practical items such as tea utensils, sake vessels, accessories, and flower vases. New designs continue to emerge while utilizing traditional techniques, and their appeal is increasingly expanding.
The Flow of Shaping, Raising, and Finishing
In the shaping process of metal hammering, metal sheets are hammered with hammers or wooden mallets to gradually shape them. In the “raising” technique, a three-dimensional shape is created by hammering the metal surface from the inside or outside. First, the metal sheet is placed on a stand and roughly hammered to create a general shape.
Afterwards, it is finished into the ideal form while adding delicate adjustments. Work to make the thickness of the metal uniform is also important to create beautiful curves and smooth surfaces. As the metal hardens from hammering, “annealing” is performed during the work to restore softness while continuing to shape.
By repeating this process, the metal’s shape is refined, maintaining strength while achieving a beautiful finish. Once shaping is complete, the process moves to finishing work to smooth the surface. Unnecessary unevenness is removed using files and abrasives to bring out the unique luster of the metal. Depending on the work, hammer marks (tsuchime) may be left on the surface to create a unique texture.
How to Enjoy Metal Hammering Works?
The appeal of metal hammering works lies in the texture of the metal and the delicate decorations created by artisans’ handwork. Utilizing their beauty and durability, they are used in many scenes as interior decorations, practical items, and art works. By incorporating them into daily life and enjoying the profound presence and changes over time unique to metal, you can enhance the quality of your space and life. Here, we introduce specific ways to enjoy metal hammering works.
Metal Hammering Crafts as Interior Decor
Metal hammering can create sophisticated interior decor when incorporated as an accent for furniture and spaces. In particular, items such as flower vases, lighting fixtures, and wall decorations are popular as decorations that are simple yet have presence.
Flower Vases
The appeal of metal hammering flower vases is that the texture of the metal is utilized, and the designs harmonize easily with both Japanese and Western-style rooms. Copper or brass flower vases with hammer marks show various expressions through light reflection, creating a more tasteful space when arranged with seasonal flowers.
Lighting Fixtures
Candle holders and lamp shades made of iron or brass create unique shadows, producing a fantastical atmosphere.
Wall Decorations
Metal hammering works as wall art or objects also add depth to interiors. Metal plates with traditional Japanese patterns or modern geometric designs serve as accents for simple spaces. The change in coloration due to aging is also enjoyable, adding to the flavor the longer they are used.
By incorporating these metal hammering works into interiors, you can add unique texture and depth to the space. Designs that fuse the coolness of metal with the warmth of handwork will match various contemporary interior styles.
Metal Hammering as Art Works
Art works using metal hammering techniques allow for a wide range of expressions, from sculptures and wall objects to small figurines. The texture and profound presence unique to metal add depth to the works, creating new expressions that transcend the boundaries of modern art and traditional crafts.
Sculptures using bronze or iron oxidize on the surface over time, creating a unique texture. Works utilizing metal hammering techniques combine delicate details with powerful forms, and many have high value as artworks. In particular, metal hammering art incorporating Japanese traditional beauty is attracting attention from collectors both domestically and internationally.
Metal hammering art that fuses with contemporary design is also increasing. New expressions are being attempted, such as objects with abstract shapes or combinations with different materials. For example, many works appear that adapt traditional techniques to contemporary lifestyles, such as works combining metal hammering with glass, or modern interior objects combining wood and stone.
In this way, metal hammering works have various ways to be enjoyed as practical items or art. By incorporating metal hammering works, where the beauty of metal and artisanal skills are fused, into your life, you can enrich your space and daily time.
Maintenance and Storage Methods for Metal Hammering Works
The appeal of metal hammering works lies in the texture and feel unique to metal, but without proper care, discoloration and rust may occur. To maintain their beautiful condition for a long time, appropriate maintenance and storage according to the material are necessary.
Here, we explain in detail daily care methods, how to deal with discoloration and rust, and tips for storage to enjoy them for a long time.
Daily Care Methods
Metal hammering works can maintain their beautiful condition for a long time with appropriate daily care. Basically, it’s important to wipe them with a dry, soft cloth. In particular, for works that are frequently touched by hand, it’s recommended to lightly wipe them after use to prevent discoloration from finger oils and sweat.
After using metal hammering works such as tableware or sake vessels, wash them gently with neutral detergent and a sponge. It’s wise to avoid sponges with abrasives or metal scrubbers as they may scratch the surface. After washing, immediately wipe off moisture with a dry cloth and dry thoroughly in a well-ventilated place before storage.
For iron metal hammering works (such as tea kettles and iron pots), it’s particularly important to remove internal moisture after use and dry completely as they are weak against water. To prevent rust, it’s effective to store them with the lid open to avoid trapping moisture.
Tips for Storing Metal Hammering Works to Enjoy Them for a Long Time
To keep metal hammering works beautiful for a long time, proper storage in an appropriate environment is essential. As metals can discolor or rust due to moisture and components in the air, humidity management and appropriate protection are necessary.
First, store them in a place with low humidity. Since iron products in particular rust easily, storing them with desiccants (such as silica gel) is effective. If not used for a long period, wrapping them in newspaper or Japanese paper can absorb excess moisture.
Silver products tend to blacken when exposed to air, so storing them in zippered bags or sealed cases can suppress discoloration. Furthermore, using anti-rust sheets or special protective cloths can help maintain their shine for a long time.
When storing works stacked, prevent scratches by inserting soft cloths or Japanese paper between them. Special care is needed for works with hammer mark patterns or delicate metal carvings as they are susceptible to damage from rubbing.
Also, practical items such as iron pots and tea kettles can prevent rust development by regular use. When storing for a long period, it’s ideal to dry them completely and then store them with newspaper or desiccants.
By providing appropriate care, you can enjoy the beauty of metal hammering works for a long time. Enjoy the changing texture of metal over time while continuing to use them with care.
Summary
Metal hammering (tankin) is a traditional technique that creates delicate decorations and unique textures by hammering metal into shape. This technique, which has developed over a long history, is utilized in various fields such as tea ceremony utensils, sake vessels, decorative items, interior decor, and art works.
As each metal hammering work is created by the hands of artisans, they have different individualities and warmth. By incorporating them into daily life, you can feel the beauty of metal and the charm of traditional Japanese techniques. Taking pleasure in developing your own texture while providing appropriate care is also a unique enjoyment of metal hammering.
Why not learn more about the profound charm of metal hammering and incorporate it into your life by exploring its world?
