 Iwami
and Wood Carving
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Today, let's go southwest in the Sanin District to the port city of
Hamada. This is an old area of Japan, and the ancient cultures still exist
there. There are many sight-seeing places.
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Among them is the impressive Hamada Coast Prefectural National Park.
This entire area is such a lovely part of Sanin that all people should
visit it. A part of it called Iwami Tatamigaura, is really impressive!
This beach was supposed to have been pushed up by an earthquake in the
1870's. Geologically speaking, it is most interesting, and scenically
attractive. The city of Hamada is not really so large, but it is quaint
and retains the feeling of old Japan. This area of Japan is "off the beaten
path," and lacks many of the facilities to be found in the big cities.
There is no McDonald hamburger there.
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However, I love the old Japan with its wonderful art, customs and manners.
The traditional art in Sanin is of the simple, natural, and heartfelt
type, designed for the people. I really appreciate this feeling! Sadly,
however, some of the old ways have been forgotten, like the Iwami Ryu
(Iwami Way) Źnetsuke carving. This school was small, but great in talent.
One was a woman! They specialized in insects, turtles, frogs, and such
animals. Their technique produced unbelievably delicate and fine work,
and while they used many materials, they were famous for using boar tusks
for their carvings.
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I met a wonderful wood carver the other day, who lives in Hamada. He
is trying to revive the Iwami Way in carving. If he continues his superior
work, he will become very well-known. It is with great hope that I am
going to watch his future. I sincerely hope it will be a great one! Right
now, he is doing many No masks, that are beautiful! My wish is that he
will continue the work of the great master carvers of the Iwami Way, and
produce, not only masks, but many lovely netsuke, as well. I have some
samples of his netsuke art, and hope to get more of these lovely pieces.
Samples of that art are very rare indeed! Work sincerely, Mr. Yanagiyama.
I am rooting for you!
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