Some of Japan's best "hard-to-find" Contemporary Crafts and Designs:
You probably already know that Japan has amazing traditional crafts. Some, like Urushi Lacquer, boast origins dating back 9000 years! Yet traditions are only part of the current, contemporary story of craftsmanship and design in Japan.
At Alfan Select we offer that which is authentic, rarely available, or even known outside Japan: some familiar in a traditional sense, others unique, unexpected, and many with historical or even curious backstories -- such as the metalworker who perfected how to color with light! So discover something new about Japan, explore, read and shop and Welcome to Alfan Select!
New! Starry-night Blue Urushi Bangle
The amazing, warm, silky glow of Japansese Urushi Lacquer shines in starry-night splendor with this handcrafted bangle. This contemporary design born of traditional skills passed down generations assure made-in-Japan craftsmanship and quality. Urushi Lacquer, an exceptional and culturally-rich craft, you can read more here about this bangle. A unique, quality gift from Japan.
Featured Designs
Living Color Tumbler Series | Horie
Colors from light alone! Find out how this Metal Craftworker did it and see more here!
Whisper Plant-Dye Silk Scarf | Maito
Can vivid colors be coaxed from nature? Japan Dye Artist says "Yes"!
Urushi Lacquer Bangles | Urushi Sakamoto
Conceived by designer R. Sakamato: ancient tradition in contemporary form.
Urushi Lacquer Earrings | Urushi Sakamoto
Depth of color best describe the designer concept in traditional Urushi lacquer.
Handcrafted Bamboo & Metals
Japanese Bamboo Basketry Art | Suruga Guild
Calming in form: elegant curves, diamond spaces filled with the morning’s light.
Ikebana Mini Wall & Table Vases | Momentum
Metal coloring of traditional origins. A Buddha statue inspires new patina colors.
Hand-Crafted | Copper Coffee Pot & Canister | Shimakura
One way to exercise arm muscles: create a shape by hammering over 100,000 times!
Hand-Hammered Blue-patina Copper Vases | Shimakura
The amazing dimpled surface of a hand-hammered vase is pure crafstmanship.
Joy From Japan: Up Close with Craft, Design & Life
