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Used as interior decoration, the Matsukasa Wind Chime, also known as the Pinecone Wind Chime, was created during the 1770s, before the Tenmei era. At the request of the lord of the Sendai region, Shoemon Genkane created a wind chime with a good sound. Shoemon was the 10th generation of the Eda clan, and named these wind chimes after the body's unique pinecone shape.
In 1781, Shoemon Genkane was appointed the foundry master of the Date Domain and established a family business centered on the production and craftsmanship of the Mastukasa Wind Chime.
Tatara iron-making techniques are used with iron sand to create the pine cone-like shape of these chimes.
The blend of material and techniques is a family secret passed down from father to son today. These secrets are not shared outside the family, making the creation of these bells an exclusive process.
A distinguishing feature of these chimes is the small holes on the surface of the metal resembling insect damage, and the spherical shape of the pinecone. The tone produced by the wind chime is described as clear and pleasant.
Ornamental decorations of these wind chimes include branches and needles from pine trees, as well as pine cones. Today, these characteristics are less used, and many of these wind chimes are simple in their body and design.
This video showcases the workshop and materials used to craft Matsukasa Wind Chimes. The unique sound, as well as the process of shaping, sanding, and assembling the wind chimes, is also briefly shown.
Miyagi store 〒987-0702
Miyagi Prefecture, Tome City, Tome Town, Teraike Kanaya 17-1
TEL/FAX 0220-52-2038
Tochigi store 〒327-0104
3278 Akamicho, Sano City, Tochigi Prefecture
TEL/FAX 0283-25-4323
Email: metal.kei.327@gmail.com
Due to the exclusivity of production, the Matsukasa Wind Chime is not widely found on online stores. They can occasionally be found in tourist centers, but most of their sales and production take place in their local stores and workshops.