Koshu Inden, a traditional Japanese craft with 400 years of history

What is Inden?

"Inden" refers to traditional leather products with patterns made of deer skin and covered with lacquer, which have been produced in Koshu (Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture) for many years. It is said that the unique technique of attaching a pattern to deerskin with lacquer was invented about 400 years ago by a distant ancestor, Yushichi Uehara. In addition to the lacquering technique, there is the "chintz technique," in which pigments are printed on deerskin, and the "smoked technique," in which straw and pine resin are burned in the smoke and dyed.

Deerskin leather to the touch

When you actually hold a deerskin leather product in your hand, you will be surprised at how completely different its texture is from cowhide and other leather products. Deerskin is said to be the closest to human skin, and the more you use it, the more it becomes familiar to your hand. It is lighter than cowhide, more resistant to water and friction, breathable, and does not age easily. The material used for "Inden" is carefully selected top quality deerskin. Please feel the supple texture of the leather.

Inden lacquer more beautiful as time goes by

Lacquer is the sap of the poison oak tree. It has been used for decoration and protection since the Stone Age for its adhesive strength, waterproof durability, and unique luster. As time goes by, the color of lacquer becomes brighter and its hue changes. This is because the originally candy-colored lacquer becomes more transparent as time goes by, and the color of the dye powder mixed with the lacquer becomes more vivid. One of the pleasures of "Inden" is the pattern that becomes clearer as it is used more and more.

Cute onigiri-shaped change purse.

This change purse has a fashionable design with a clasp closure. The mouth opens wide, making it easy to see the contents. The surrounding and inside are made of black leather, and although it may look hard in the picture, it is a soft and fluffy wallet. The clasp closure is a chic dark gray.

Interior Fabrics

It is made of gray jacquard weave fabric.

Color of clasp

The color of the clasp is dark silver.

Notes.

Product images are for reference only. Since "Inden" periodically changes the colors and patterns of its products, the products in the reference image may no longer be manufactured. Also, specifications are subject to change without notice.