What is Japan's traditional craft "Inden"? Discover the charm of Indenya's "Koshu Inden" leather products!
Have you ever heard of the term "Inden"? It refers to leather products characterized by beautiful lacquer patterns, and it is one of Japan's traditional crafts. Particularly, "Koshu Inden" produced in Yamanashi Prefecture is renowned worldwide for its long history and exceptional quality. From here, we will introduce the charm of “Koshu Inden” leather products.
What are "Inden" and "Koshu Inden"? How are they different?
"Inden" is a general term for a Japanese leather craft in which patterns are applied to deerskin with lacquer and other materials. Its name is said to originate from the Edo period (1624–1643) when foreign visitors presented Indian leather products to the shogunate. The terms "Indo" (India) or "Inrai" (introduced from India) gradually evolved into "Inden."
Among them, "Koshu Inden" is a type of Inden that flourished in the late Edo period, particularly in the Kofu area of present-day Yamanashi Prefecture. This traditional craft has been passed down for over 400 years. Additionally, "Koshu Inden" is the only Inden product designated as a Traditional Craft by Japan's Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry in 1987.
Characteristics of the traditional Japanese craft "Koshu Inden"
Koshu Inden’s products are characterized by their use of soft, durable, and lightweight deerskin bags that become more comfortable to use over time, increasing their charm and sentimental value. In addition, the lacquered patterns applied to the leather grow more vibrant with time, exuding a profound and serene luster.
The primary material, deerskin, is renowned for its soft texture, often considered closest to human skin. Its lightweight and durable nature have made it a popular material for making tools and armor throughout history.
Another captivating aspect of Koshu Inden is its exquisite patterns. Common patterns such as small cherry blossoms, irises, and dragonflies depict the beauty of nature and the changing seasons. The high level of artistic design is one of the reasons behind its enduring popularity.
Why it is recommended to buy Indenya's Koshu-inden products?
Founded in 1582, Inden-ya (Inden-ya Uehara Yushichi Co., Ltd.) is the originator of Koshu Inden. The founder, Yushichi Uehara, developed the unique “urushi-tsuke” technique (lacquer application) and created Koshu Inden. This family-secret technique was passed down from generation to generation and remained undisclosed until the twelfth generation. Although the family secret has now been shared to promote the INDEN technique more widely, Inden-ya remains a leading producer of Koshu Inden, manufacturing a variety of products such as wallets, bags, and small accessories.
Inden-ya not only preserves tradition but also continually refines its craft and pursues innovation. In addition to creating its original brand, Inden-ya collaborated with the British royal warrant brand Asprey in 2017, engaging in co-creation with international luxury brands.
The Craftsmanship and techniques behind Inden-ya's Koshu Inden
Inden-ya’s Koshu Inden is a family-secret craft passed down through generations, where the head of the family assumes the name Yushichi Uehara and preserves this art through the tradition of isshi soden (one heir inherits the technique). Koshu Inden involves several key techniques for creating its unique designs: the lacquer application technique "Urushi-tsuke", the smoke coloring technique "Kunsen", and the pigment pattern coloring technique "Sarasa".
- Urushi-tsuke: A hand-carved stencil is placed over the dyed deerskin, and lacquer is brushed onto the surface, creating intricate patterns.
- Kunsen: The deerskin is stretched tightly over a drum-like cylinder, and straw is burned to smoke the skin, giving it a natural hue.
- Sarasa: Colors are layered one by one on deerskin dyed a soft yamabuki (golden yellow) color, with a different stencil used for each color, resulting in vibrant and harmonious patterns.
Where can you buy the Koshu Inden products?
To guarantee quality, Inden-ya products come with a printed "shiori" (栞) and an inspection seal featuring the Inden-ya logo. In addition to Inden-ya's official online store, direct selling stores are also located in Yamanashi, Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya. For international customers, Inden-ya products can be purchased through You.en.
Products available on You.en include wallets, bags, pouches, coin cases, key holders, and more.
＼Popular products／
Inden slim long wallet SOYOKA
A smart long wallet with the design that reduce thickness.The bill compartment has a strap closure so you can store your bills safely.
Inden square mirror
It comes with two types of mirrors that can be used both as a life-size mirror and as a magnifying mirror.
Inden key chain
A lovely key chain with a plump Inden design. Comes with 3 G-rings.
Inden long wallet with cover Flower
It maintains a stylish design with basic functions, and it will not become too bulky even when filled with bills and cards.
Inden coin purse
A classic and traditional coin purse with kiss clasp. It has a gusset that prevents it from losing its shape even when filled with lots of coins.
Maintenance of products
The soft and lightweight deerskin used in the products of Koshu Inden is skillfully blended with the lacquer color that changes over time, so that the longer they are used, the more they will show their unique character.
If you accidentally get the product wet, avoid rubbing it. Instead, lightly pat with a dry cloth to absorb the moisture and place it in a cool place to dry. Do not use benzine, cleaners, or wax to clean stains or enhance shine.