Shikunshi Decorative Plate with Grip Handles

About the Electroforming Process

Crafted using a technique called electroforming, a skilled metal engraver handcarves an original mold. Then, using electricity, layers of copper are gradually deposited onto the mold, allowing for an incredibly precise reproduction, capturing even the finest chisel marks from the original design. Coloring is also done meticulously by the hands of experienced artisans, who use an electric brush to carefully apply plating one color at a time.

About the Motif

The design features the Four Noble Ones (Shikunshi in Japanese): plum, chrysanthemum, orchid, and bamboo. These plants have long been respected in East Asian art and philosophy as symbols of the noble virtues that one should embody. Plum is the first bloom in the cold winter known for its full-bodied fragrance. Chrysanthemum represents the sun and vibrances for its radial pattern of the petals. Orchid is known as a symbol of good will, it embodies refinement and modesty. Lastly, Bamboo, for its flexible yet determined nature, symbolizes strength, resilience, and unwavering spirit.