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Japanese Antique Hand-Carved Cedar “Gangi” 1860s-1920s / Primitive Wall Art

$700
£525.39
€613.06
CA$988.96
A$991.51
CHF 574.57
MX$12,115.44
NOK 6,658.47
SEK 6,799.41
DKK 4,582.49

About the Item

This is a wooden component from a traditional Japanese tool known as a “Gangi” (雁木), once used in the construction and maintenance of thatched roofs. It is crafted from Japanese cedar (sugi). The piece is believed to date from the Meiji to Taisho period (circa 1868–1926). In traditional Japanese thatched-roof construction, bundles of thatch were layered across the roof and then repeatedly tapped, pressed, and adjusted to create an even surface and a beautifully balanced roofline. A Gangi was one of the specialized tools used during this process to grip and align the thatch. This piece is believed to have originally formed part of such a tool. Its most captivating feature is undoubtedly its richly textured surface. The numerous small, regularly arranged projections and recesses were individually carved by hand, originally serving the practical purpose of gripping the thatch. Through generations of repeated use, however, their sharp edges gradually softened and wore away, creating subtle variations in depth, curvature, and texture across the surface. The combination of an orderly grid-like structure and the irregular wear of the aged wood has transformed what was once a purely functional object into something resembling an intentionally composed abstract relief or sculpture. Viewed closely, countless carving marks and the natural grain of the cedar become visible. From a distance, the repeated small squares form a quiet geometric pattern. As light moves across the surface, delicate shadows emerge within the carved texture, continuously changing its appearance. Although originally only one component of an anonymous everyday tool, it now possesses the presence of a sculptural work in its own right. The form was created not by artistic intention alone, but through the extraordinary combination of human craftsmanship, repeated labor, and the gradual passage of time. The resulting surface is something that could never be authentically reproduced. We recommend displaying the piece on a wall as a primitive wall sculpture, textural wall art, or small sculptural object. Its restrained geometry and weathered surface allow it to integrate beautifully into contemporary and minimalist interiors. The piece also embodies the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi—an appreciation for the beauty found in imperfection, wear, and the visible traces of time. It will be carefully packed and shipped safely from Japan. Weight: 1.5 kg
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 11.82 in (30 cm)Width: 11.03 in (28 cm)Depth: 3.55 in (9 cm)
  • Style:
    Primitive (In the Style Of)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Cedar,Woodwork
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1860s-1920s
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    Chōsei District Nagara, JP
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU10403251520082

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