Bachiru (撥鏤) is the Japanese art technique and Japanese craft of engraving dyed ivory.
Bachiru originated in Tang dynasty China, and was introduced to Japan in the 8th century C.E.[1] The ivory pieces to be decorated are first stained with pigment (usually red, green or blue). Ivory does not take colour easily and has to be put through a process of repeated boiling and soaking in dye in order to achieve the appropriate hue.[2] Images are incised on the coloured ivory using a technique known as keri-bori ("kick engraving").[3] The stained surface is scraped away to reveal the ivory underneath.[4] Additional detail is then sometimes added in another colour, using a fine paintbrush.[2]
The art of bachiru was largely lost until its rediscovery in the 20th century by Yoshida Fumiyuki (1915-2004).[2] Yoshida was recognised as a Living National Treasure for his work with this art medium.[5]
References edit
- ^ Louis Frédéric (2002). Japan enciklopedia. Harvard University Press. p. 66. ISBN 978-0-674-01753-5. Retrieved 3 May 2013.
- ^ a b c "Bachiru". JapanARTSandCRAFTS.com. Archived from the original on 23 January 2013. Retrieved 3 May 2013.
- ^ 木村法光 (1992). 正倉院宝物にみる家具・調度. 紫紅社. p. 80. ISBN 978-4-87940-520-3. Retrieved 3 May 2013.
- ^ Frieda Kay Fall (1967). Art objects: their care and preservation: a reference for museums and collectors. Museum Publications. p. 95. Retrieved 3 May 2013.
- ^ The Japan Foundation Newsletter. Japan Foundation. 1985. p. xxvii. Retrieved 3 May 2013.