kumiko 組子

The Art of Kumiko 組子

Kumiko (組子) is a traditional Japanese woodworking technique used to create intricate geometric patterns in shoji screens (障子) - sliding doors made of paper - and ranma (欄間), openwork transoms installed above partitions between rooms.

This delicate craft involves assembling precisely cut pieces of wood, fitted together without nails or glue, to form ornate and harmonious designs. Each piece must fit with extraordinary accuracy, with a tolerance of less than 0.1 millimeter. Craftsmen prepare tiny notches, grooves, and joints using only saws, planes, and chisels, and assemble them entirely by hand with a small hammer.

It takes around ten years of training under a Kumiko master to become a skilled craftsman. Today, there are estimated to be only around 100professional Kumiko artisans in all of Japan - a testament to the demanding precision nd dedication required to preserve this ancient art.

Pattern and Meanings

There are two main base patterns used in Kumiko screens:

• Hishi-Kumiko (菱組子) - a diamond-shaped lattice.
• Koshi-Kumiko (格子組子) - a grid-like framework.

From these foundations, artisans fill the spaces with hundreds of more intricate motifs - each one imbued with symbolism and meaning. There are said to be over 200 traditional Kumiko patterns in total.

For example, the Asanoha-mon (麻の葉紋) - a hemp leaf pattern - famously appeared in the original Hotel Okura's signature lounge. This motif has long been a beloved Japanese design, often used for kimonos and children's clothing, as it symbolises a wish for children to grow strong and healthy, just like the fast-growing hemp plant. The repeating triangle shapes are also believed to ward off evil spirits, offering both beauty and protection.

Tradition and Modern Living

As Japanese homes have become more Westernised, Kumiko screens are now rarely seen in modern interiors. Yet, their quiet elegance, the interplay of light, shadow, and craftsmanship, continues to embody the essence of Japanese aesthetics.

Whenever I have the opportunity, I feel it is my duty and joy to reintroduce Kumiko screens and the Tokonoma (床の間) alcove into contemporary residential spaces, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design to keep this timeless art alive.

Kumiko reminds us that beauty lies in precision, patience, and the harmony between human hands and natural materials.