Boxwood (Tsuge) Craftsman
つげさいくこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Artisan who carves and finishes precision wooden products such as combs and ornaments by hand using high-grade boxwood material.
Description
Boxwood craftsmen use hard timber known as tsuge (boxwood) as material to carve, polish, and finish small items such as combs, pipe mouthpieces (kuchi), netsuke, and decorative metal fittings. They understand the characteristics of the material, carve accurately using hand tools based on designs, and complete the products through polishing and buffing processes. While inheriting traditional techniques, they also create works that meet modern demands by incorporating new designs and processing methods.
Future Outlook
Although the number of traditional craft practitioners is on a declining trend, demand as high-value-added products and attention from overseas markets are increasing, and sustainability through branding and successor cultivation is expected.
Personality Traits
Excellent aesthetic sense / High concentration / Meticulous / Patient
Work Style
Custom-made / Freelance / Made-to-order production / Workshop employment
Career Path
Apprentice/Disciple → Independent Artisan → Traditional Craftsman → Workshop Owner → Instructor/Successor Training
Required Skills
Hand carving technique / Knowledge of material properties / Pattern creation / Polishing technique
Recommended Skills
Basic English / Finishing techniques / Inlay technique / Lacquer coating technique
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | High precision is required in detailed carving and finishing. |
| Creativity & Ideation | Creative ideas for decoration and design are required. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Communication Skills | Communication with customers or teams is limited, as the work is primarily focused on individual tasks. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Manual precision and tactile sense are emphasized over quantities or calculations. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | Mainly individual work, so collaboration in teams is limited. |
Related Qualifications
- Traditional Craftsman
Aliases
- Boxwood Craftsman
- Tsuge Craftsman
Related Jobs
- Lacquerware Artisan
- Traditional Craftsman
- Wood Carver
- Woodworking Artisan