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Kintsugi, also known as Kintsukuroi, is a traditional Japanese art form that involves repairing broken pottery with lacquer mixed with gold, silver, or other precious metals. The term “kintsugi” translates to “golden joinery” or “golden repair.” Instead of disguising or hiding the cracks and flaws of the broken object, kintsugi embraces them and transforms them into beautiful and integral parts of the item’s history.
The art of kintsugi is rooted in the philosophy of wabi-sabi, which appreciates the beauty in imperfections and impermanence. It embodies the idea that the broken and repaired object becomes even more valuable and precious through the process of mending. By highlighting the fractures with gold or other metals, kintsugi celebrates the history and journey of the object, honoring its past while giving it new life.
The process of kintsugi involves several steps. First, the broken pieces of the pottery are meticulously reassembled using a special lacquer. The lacquer, often mixed with powdered precious metals, acts as an adhesive and reinforcement. Once the pieces are joined together, the lacquer is applied along the cracks and smoothed out. Then, gold, silver, or other metals in powdered form are carefully sprinkled or applied over the lacquer, creating intricate patterns or lines. After drying, the piece is polished to achieve a smooth and unified appearance.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, kintsugi holds deeper symbolic meanings. It is seen as a metaphor for the acceptance of flaws and the process of healing and resilience. The repaired object becomes a visual representation of the journey it has been through, reflecting the beauty and strength that can emerge from adversity.
In recent years, kintsugi has gained popularity beyond pottery repair and has inspired artists to incorporate its principles into other creative forms, such as sculpture, jewelry, and even abstract paintings. The art of kintsugi serves as a reminder to embrace imperfections, honor the past, and find beauty in the broken.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kintsugi