Exploring New and Diverse Expressions in Tortoiseshell Craftsmanship

Edo Bekko (tortoiseshell) is crafted from the shell of the hawksbill sea turtle, a specific type of sea turtle. The art of tortoiseshell crafting is a venerable technique, historically used in parts of walking sticks and biwas (Japanese lutes) that are found among the treasures of the Shosoin Repository. Edo Bekko crafting began around the time when the Edo shogunate was established. The craftsmanship was initially simple, utilizing the shell as is. However, during the Genroku era, the technique of lamination was introduced to Edo, enabling the creation of more complex designs.

Bekko Isogai has roots tracing back to the late Edo period tortoiseshell workshop Isemoto . Tortoiseshell has long been cherished as a luxurious accessory for traditional Japanese accessories, such as hairpins and combs. We have expanded this tortoiseshell into a wide range of products such as jewelry and lifestyle accessories, sold at our direct retail store Bekko Isogai in Asakusa and Kameido. Additionally, with a modern and stylish selection that includes chain necklaces and business card holders, we are showcasing the new appeal of tortoiseshell.

Minoru Isogai, the master of the three Bekko Isogai brothers, is dedicated to faithfully passing on his meticulous skills to his apprentices, thus laying the foundation for Bekko Isogai, and his techniques are highly esteemed, being recognized as an Intangible Cultural Asset of Koto City, and garnering a Tokyo Meister, a title awarded to exceptional craftsmen in Tokyo.

neobekko Bracelet

Bekko Isogai
Tsuyoshi Isogai
Asakusa Store
1-21-3 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032
TEL & FAX 03-3845-1211
Kameido Store
3-3-6 Kameido, Koto-ku, Tokyo 136-0071
TEL & FAX 03-5628-1244
https://bekko-isogai.jp/index.html