Traditional

A local craft you’ll only see in Kumamoto is Higo Zogan. It involves engraving an iron base with a design and inlaying with gold, silver, or both. Designs are often ancient (such as kuyokamon — the crest of nine celestial bodies) but are sometimes modern. The History of Higo Zogan Higo Zogan has existed for around 400 years, dating back to the Edo Period. It was originally used to add ornamental elements to weapons, such as to the handles of swords. However, when there was a ban on the ownership of weapons during the Meiji Restoration, it was no longer profitable to use Higo Zogan in this way. There was a shift toward engraving personal accessories — including earrings, tiepins, cufflinks, and cigarette cases — as well as utensils for tea. Producing Higo Zogan Higo Zogan is a complicated process. The first step is to make the iron base by cutting an iron plate and filing it to the desired shape. The artisan also uses a file to improve the appearance by removing any rust, stains, or blemishes. Next, the craftsman prepares the iron base for the inlay by securing it in a stand made from stone powder and pine…