Nestled in the serene landscapes of Joboji town in Iwate Prefecture, Sanzo Nagayama's journey as an independent joiner began nearly 60 years ago. Today, he stands recognized as a "Modern Master Craftsman" by the nation, a testament to his unique vision and skill. His innovation, the "Nanbu Sazamekumi Pattern," has earned him numerous prestigious awards, showcasing his unparalleled prowess in woodworking.
The Nanbu Sazamekumi Pattern is an exemplary woodworking technique that employs the use of layered wooden boards to create dynamic, three-dimensional patterns that change appearance with the angle of view and lighting conditions. This intricate method, derived from meticulous calculations, produces masterpieces previously deemed impossible to craft.
Sanzo’s path to perfecting this technique was not short. A decade into his venture, he presented his creations at a provincial review, only to face disappointment. The critique spurred him to pioneer his distinctive technique driven by the resolve that continuous effort and originality are the keys to future success.
"It was a series of failures, but holding firm to one's beliefs and striving relentlessly paves the way to the future. One must not settle for creating what others have; I wanted to craft something entirely new."
Another decade of tireless work, regardless of day or night, eventually led to the establishment of his current technique. His humility and unyielding curiosity were no doubt instrumental in developing the Nanbu Sazamekumi Pattern.
Nagayama's works, crafted from ancient buried woods like Jindai Keyaki or Hiba, exude a profound heaviness yet impart a refreshing aura. This effect is achieved through the intricate combination of various woods forming diamond-shaped cavities, harmonizing the material's depth with a cool impression. In Japan, the diamond shape has long been used as a motif for warding off evil and bringing good fortune, and Nagayama's wooden representations are not only aesthetically pleasing but also built to become cherished heirlooms of their owners.
"When things go wrong, laugh it off; when they go right, remain humble and vigilant."
This philosophy is now embraced by Sanzo's third son, Yusuke, who is currently honing his skills as his successor. Yusuke is dedicated to refining the family’s crafts and driving its evolution forward. The challenge continues for both Sanzo and Yusuke, who strive to never settle, ensuring their spirited craftsmanship captivates all who behold their work, now and in the future.