Koikko: Golden Beak – Toco Toucan (A)

Golden Beak – Toco Toucan (A)

Challenging New Possibilities in Kimekomi* Art

Delivery: 3-4 weeks

Refund Policy: https://japantastics.jp/policies/refund-policy

The second piece in the Anima Series features a toucan.

Inspired by the Toco Toucan—a bird native to Central and South America, known for its striking large beak and beautiful plumage—this work is crafted using materials traditionally found in fine Japanese decorative arts, including paulownia wood composite, gofun (shell-based pigment), and textiles used for kimekomi.

Rare materials such as kinran (gold-brocade fabric)—now extremely difficult to obtain—are incorporated into the piece.
The white areas on the chest and tail are created by layering tengujō washi, an ultra-thin Japanese paper.
The toucan’s iconic beak is adorned with gold leaf, while pigments are used to express the characteristically vivid eyes.

The sculpture is displayed on a steel base, integrated seamlessly with the legs.
This is a work that fully utilizes traditional techniques, while standing proudly as a piece of contemporary art.

*What is Kimekomi?

Kimekomi is a traditional Japanese doll-making technique in which fabric is tucked into finely carved grooves on a wooden or molded base.
Instead of sewing, the cloth is “inserted” (kimekomu) into the surface, creating smooth and elegant patterns that form the doll’s clothing.

Originally developed in the 18th century in Kyoto, this method produces dolls with a gentle, refined appearance and beautifully contoured costumes.

Dimensions

W 30 cm × D 11 cm × H 32 cm

Weight  900g