The Sekkaboku developed by Yagura Sensei is available for purchase from the following website (Japanese site).
A “Tsukamaki-shi(柄巻師)” refers to an artisan who specializes in crafting the handles (tsuka) of Japanese swords. In particular, the task of wrapping the handle with tsuka-ito (handle cord) is crucial for reinforcing and strengthening the handle, as well as improving the sword’s grip. Since the blade is typically hidden inside the scabbard (saya), the tsukamaki greatly influences the overall appearance of the sword, making it an essential aspect from an artistic perspective as well.
Yagura Makiichi 矢倉 捲一
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Born in February 1978 in Saitama Prefecture.
In August 2010, began training in the Tenshinryu .
Through an introduction by Tenshin Senei (Tenshinryu 9th Grandmaster), developed a fascination with Japanese swords.
In 2015, was inspired by a demonstration of handle wrapping (tsukamaki 柄巻) at a museum and began pursuing training in this craft. With the guidance of a mentor, started training and eventually became a professional tsukamaki craftsman(Tsukamakishi 柄巻師).
Since then, he has thrived as a tsukamaki craftsman and has received numerous awards.
To expand the range of koshirae (拵え sword fittings) design, also began creating sageo (下緒 cords for tying sword scabbards). Currently, training in the craft of making shirasaya (白鞘 plain wooden scabbards).
Since joining the Tenshinryu , not only engaged in martial arts training but also deeply explored the cultural aspects surrounding Japanese swords.
The highest-quality Sekkaboku (石華墨 a tool used for making sword rubbings) was considered lost, with its manufacturing method deemed unknown and impossible to reproduce.
However, through extensive research, Yagura Sensei successfully recreated the production method and revived Sekkaboku of unparalleled quality, earning widespread acclaim as the best in history.
Awards (as of 2024):
- Modern Swordsmith Exhibition: Excellence Award (3 times)
- Modern Swordsmith Exhibition: Effort Award (3 times)
- Masterpieces of the Reiwa Era: Runner-Up Grand Prize (2nd Place)
Dedication:
- Reiwa 5 (2023):
Dedicated sword-making techniques, including handle craftsmanship, to the Atsuta Shrine Sword and Technique Dedication Association.
- Sekka-boku 石華墨
https://asahitoken.jp/contents/16_sekkaboku/sekkaboku.html
Sword rubbings (oshigata 押形) were a method used to preserve the appearance of swords in an era before photography existed.
The technique using sekkaboku was particularly established during the late Edo period, allowing the accurate depiction of a sword’s form. Through the process of tracing and hand-correcting the details, oshigata itself became recognized as an art form, firmly rooted as a part of Japanese culture and the culture surrounding Japanese swords.
Even in the modern era, with photography and video available, oshigata is highly regarded as a traditional cultural practice and a form of art. - Sageo(下緒 sword knot) production using traditional kumihimo (組紐) braiding techniques
Modern kumihimo (sageo) are mostly produced by machine, with only a small number being hand-braided, and the traditional techniques are gradually being lost each year.
Yagura Sensei preserves these traditional methods.
About Overseas Seminars
Yagura Sensei aims to teach traditional techniques such as tsukamaki (handle wrapping), kumihimo (braiding), and the production methods of sword rubbings to people overseas.
If you wish to invite, please contact us at the following address.