1. The Depth and Luster Unique to Cloisonné EnamelCloisonné enamel is a technique where glass-like glaze is fired onto metal, creating a distinctive gloss and depth of color that changes with the light. The tie pin in the photograph features a gradient from deep indigo to black, with sparkling patterns resembling silver foil that shine beautifully.
2. The Value of Handmade One-of-a-Kind ItemsSince each piece of cloisonné enamel is finished by artisans working individually by hand, no two are exactly the same. It makes for a unique tie pin with its own personality, perfect as a gift.
3. Design Suitable for Both Formal and Casual OccasionsWhile simple, the design exudes a sense of luxury and is easy to match with suit styles as well as jacket outfits. The subdued color tones enhance an elegant, mature look.
4. Fusion of Traditional Craftsmanship and Modern SensibilityWhile preserving the traditional techniques of cloisonné enamel, the design is modern and fits well into contemporary business scenes. It is popular among those with a keen sense of style who want to incorporate traditional crafts into everyday life.
This cufflink features a simple design that makes it easy to match with any scene, while maximizing the beauty of cloisonné enamel through a gradient effect.Made with high-quality pure silver fittings, it can be worn at parties such as weddings. Although made of pure silver, it is finished with rhodium plating for precious metals, minimizing tarnish over time.It is also recommended as a gift for someone special or as a reward for oneself.
Since each piece is handcrafted, there may be slight variations in the gradient’s shading. Thank you for your understanding.
■ Colors- Onyx- Royal Blue- Turquoise Blue- Mauve
■ MaterialsCloisonné part: Pure silver over copper baseFittings: Pure silver + rhodium plating
■ Size18mm totalCloisonné part: approximately 15mm
■ About ReturnsWe take great care in packaging, but please check the product upon arrival for any damage, as damage may occur during shipping.Returns or exchanges cannot be accepted after three days from receipt.If there is any defect or issue with the product, please contact us via transaction message.Our staff will respond accordingly afterward.
■ Handling InstructionsCloisonné enamel is a traditional craft where glass-like glaze is fired onto a metal base.Since the surface is glassy, it may crack if subjected to strong impact.Please handle with care.
ーーー
【About the Artist】Satsuki Nonaka graduated from a university specializing in information technology and worked in the IT industry. Initially, she was completely unrelated to traditional crafts and felt that her world was narrow, living among people different from those she met in school and university. She also heard that many of her friends who are traditional artisans or related to them studied at art colleges and traveled around the world learning about art.
Her maternal relatives run Ota Cloisonné, a company that has been manufacturing and selling cloisonné enamel products. She mentions that if she had not been involved, the company might have disappeared. She felt that the future of the company depended on her involvement, as it had been connected to her ancestors for 130 years. She thought it would be a shame and sad if it were lost.
Although she grew up outside the world of cloisonné, she noticed that there are no successors at other kilns, and if no one takes over, the craft will disappear. The current generation agreed to close the business in about ten years if no one continued, but she decided to keep going, feeling more joy than obligation.
Through this experience, her interest deepened, and now she actively promotes the family’s craft through websites, e-commerce, Instagram, and other SNS platforms. She particularly focuses on accessories, noting that cloisonné is often worn by older generations, and she wants to attract younger people’s attention.
【My Personal Thoughts】One of my hobbies is traveling. I belonged to a travel club in university and traveled across Japan. During these trips, I was often surprised by how some local towns were declining or had very few people, and I was captivated by the beauty of traditional crafts I encountered there. I believe that spreading awareness of these traditional crafts could help restore Japan’s unique cultural identity, which is gradually being lost. That is why I participate in activities to promote traditional crafts.
I also chose cloisonné enamel because of the difficulty and meaningfulness of its production process. It originated in China before the B.C. era and was introduced to Japan during the Kofun period. The term "cloisonné" refers to the beautiful glazed ware associated with the seven treasures from Buddhist stories, with transparent colors that I find appealing when wearing the pieces. I want many people to learn about and appreciate this historic craft.
【Introduction to the Craft】Cloisonné enamel is a traditional craft combining metal and glass, with a deep cultural heritage.It is said that almost anything can be made as a work of cloisonné, ranging from pieces that take several years to complete to those finished in just a few hours. The extensive use of glass results in transparent, vivid colors, which is a characteristic feature.
Additionally, cloisonné is resistant to rust and aging, and is said to last nearly 100 years.The accessories sold by Ota Cloisonné are especially characterized by cool-toned colors, chosen because they display the most beautiful appearance when created. Each piece is handcrafted, with silver being carefully applied and then painted, reflecting Nonaka’s heartfelt dedication.