KiKU / Yuichi Takemata

Artist : Yuichi Takemata
Material : Metal
Area : Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan

Yuichi Takemata based in Kanazawa creates handcrafted cutlery that embrace the Japanese aesthetic of wabi-sabi, celebrating the beauty of imperfection and the passage of time. From his atelier in the historic Higashi Chaya district, Takemata draws on his expertise in restoring antique jewelry to craft everyday items that evolve gracefully with use. His stainless steel and brass cutlery, hammered and finished by hand, develops a weathered patina that embodies the idea of “new vintage,” where modern craftsmanship merges with the elegance of timeworn tradition.

The "ryo" series, created in collaboration with Osamu Saruyama and Tasan Kinzoku, utilizes molds from the era when Western tableware was first introduced to Japan. These timeless designs, combined with Takemata’s craftsmanship, make his cutlery a perfect complement to Japanese tableware or antique pottery, blending seamlessly into any dining setting while embracing the beauty of aging and use.