Mokume Gane Technique
The words "mokume" and "gane" translate into "wood eye" and "metal." This describes the appearance of metal that has been shaped using the a metal working technique that began hundreds of years ago.
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History
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Mokume gane was developed in the 1600s in Japan, allegedly by an Akita prefecture metalsmith named Denbei Shoami (1651 to 1728). He used the mokume gane technique to dress up samurai swords.
Features
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The mokume gane technique involves fusing several layers of different metals, and artistically exposing sections of lower layers. The metal is often made to display a pattern that mimics wood grain. A variety of metals can be used to give different arrays of coloration.
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Process
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Layers of metal are pressed together and fused with heat. The forged layers are carved to expose lower layers and are then pressed again. The carving and pressing is repeated to develop the pattern. Traditionally, the metals must be compatible on a malleable and ductile level. This limits the possible metals usable for the mokume gane technique.
Considerations
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There are different methods of the mokume gane technique. Traditional mokume gane doesn't use solder or flux, but now there is a method that does. The mokume gane technique has been adapted for polymer clay.
Function
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The mokume gane technique is used for any artistic piece, such as jewelry, or its historical use, for swords.
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