The only Inden, in Tokyo

It is said that its Indian roots gave origin to the name “inden”. For this style of stencil patterned leather, deer skin is the material used. This is a material that fits well to the hand, and for its strength has been used in armour since Japan’s Warring States period (in the late 15th and 16th century). Patterns are sometimes made through burning onto the material, in a technique called “fusube”. Chintz is also used, but more recently, lacquerwork onto the surface has become more common. Edo (pre-1868 Tokyo) was a place that had an emphasis on style, with inden widely loved, and made in several workshops. At the Inden Yabe workshop today, there is an officially recognised craftsman, and it is only such business left in Tokyo. Founded in 1924, it has passed from parent to child over three generations, with nearly 100 years of work in its technique. The manufacture begins with planning and design, but what marks it out is the chic, distinctly Edo use of colour. While there are some bright colour designs within the line up, the most striking are the black lacquer and other cool monotones. Another characteristic is the desire at the workshop for the users of their products to love and to hold them for a long time. This provides the essence of their durability.

INDEN YABE Co.,Ltd.
3-21-7 Tateishi, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo 124-0012
TEL +81-3-3602-3549
Yoshinobu Yabe, President
Yusuke Yabe
indenyabe@msn.com