【日本文化探訪】ー夏の和の心得:風鈴──音で涼を感じる日本の美学

On a summer evening in Japan, the delicate sounds echoing from the eaves - that is the wind chime. This seemingly simple instrument has more than just an ornament, embodying the Japanese aesthetic philosophy cultivated over the centuries and refined art that gives a sense of coolness through sound.

For discerning collectors and enthusiasts of outstanding craftsmanship around the world, Japanese wind chimes offer a unique sensory experience that transcends cultural boundaries. For those who want to incorporate Japanese aesthetic sense into their modern lifestyle, wind chimes are the ideal choice that combines sound and beauty.

A world of sophisticated sound created by materials

Nanbu Iron Wind Cableis the finest masterpiece made by skilled craftsmen in Iwate Prefecture. The heavy, deep sound produced by the density of iron has a majestic sound that resonates like an old temple bell. Once heard, the sound slowly spreads into the air, bringing meditative silence. This traditional craft can be said to be an artwork that expresses the aesthetics of Japan's "wabi and sabi" through sound.

 

Edo Glass Wind Cableis a traditional craft from the Edo period known for its clear, light tone. The pitch and resonance of the sound will vary slightly depending on the thickness and shape of the glass that the craftsmen create by hand one by one. This is a luxurious item that perfectly harmonizes visual beauty with auditory coolness, and is truly a luxurious item that you can enjoy with your five senses.

 

Suruga bamboo sysushi craft wind chimeis a rare masterpiece officially certified as a traditional craft of Shizuoka Prefecture. It is characterized by the beautiful curves of delicate bamboo lanterns, made by carving bamboo to the very least, and the bamboo part that sways in the wind gives it a refreshing tone when it comes into contact with the metal bell. This technique, which has a history of hundreds of years, can be said to be the crystallization of the artistic skills of craftsmen who know bamboo well. In today's world, interest in sustainable materials is growing, it is also attracting attention as an environmentally friendly luxury item.


source:Shizuoka Bamboo Crafts Cooperative Association From the Suruga Takesensuji Works website

 

Psychology of Acoustic Unravels the Secret of "Cool"

Why do you feel cool when you hear the sound of wind chimes? There is a scientific basis for this phenomenon.

The sound played by the wind chime is proof that the wind is blowing, and the brain unconsciously associates this sound with coolness. What's even more interesting is that the sound of wind chimes does not have a constant rhythmic pattern. This irregularity leads human brain waves to alpha wave states, resulting in a natural relaxation effect.

Recent psychoacoustic research has confirmed that the sound of wind chimes activates the parasympathetic nervous system and actually lowers the perceived temperature. This can be said to be a natural and lasting cool effect that cannot be achieved with air conditioning equipment.

The Artisans' Techniques - Artisans who carve sounds

The beautiful tone of the wind chime is not a product of coincidence. Our skilled craftsmen focus on sound quality in every process, from selecting materials to final tuning.

What is particularly noteworthy is the tuning technique. By adjusting the length and weight of the acoustic part called the "tongue" in just a few millimeters, the ideal tone is created. The master of Edo wind chimes will distinguish the sounds of hundreds of wind chimes a day, and tune them to suit each one.

This precision craftsmanship requires an extremely high level of skill, similar to European luxury watchmaking and Italian instrument making. He is truly an artist who creates "jewellery of sound."

Proposals for modern lifestyles

In modern, sophisticated living spaces, wind chimes offer value that goes beyond mere ornaments. In a life surrounded by technology, the natural acoustic experiences created by wind chimes are a valuable element that enhances the well-being of both the body and mind.

High-quality Japanese wind chimes have attracted attention as artworks worth investing in by collectors around the world due to their beautiful tone, craftsmanship and cultural background. For those who pursue true wealth, wind chimes are the ultimate lifestyle item that satisfies the five senses.