Feature

Fukido's hammered copperware

Fukido's hammered copperware develops a richer texture and becomes more endearing with use. Crafted through three generations of meticulous handwork, these copperware pieces are truly "lifetime" tools.

Fukido's hammered copperware

What is Fukido's hammered copperware?

Fukido's hammered copperware, as the name suggests, is copperware made using a forging technique in which a single copper plate is annealed and hammered with various hammers, large and small, to create the desired shape.
Brought to Tsubame City, Niigata Prefecture, in the mid-Edo period, this technique has been passed down for approximately 200 years. The hammering process tightens the metal, making the pieces extremely durable and enhancing their character with use.

The crafting process of hammered copperware

(1) Metal Removal and Metal Cutting

(1) Metal Removal and Metal Cutting

The copper sheet is cut to the appropriate size.

(2) Annealing

(2) Annealing

The copper sheet is annealed in a fire.

(3) Hammering

(3) Hammering

The annealed copper sheet is hammered into shape using a variety of tools, including a metal insert, a wooden mallet, and a hammer.

(4) Annealing and Hammering

(4) Annealing and Hammering

Hammering hardens the copper sheet, so it is annealed and then hammered further to create the desired shape. *This process is repeated until the desired shape is achieved.

(5) Shaping

(5) Shaping

The finished product is hammered to further smooth the surface.

(6) Polishing and Finishing

(6) Polishing and Finishing

The surface is polished and then colored for a finished look. Kettles and copper pots are tin-processed.

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(7) Polishing, inspection, and completion

The product is polished, inspected, and completed.

What Makes This Artisan's hammered copperware So Special

  • A single copper plate is annealed and hammered repeatedly, then shaped entirely by hand.
  • Hammering increases its strength, resulting in extremely durable vessels that can be used for a long time.
  • A treatment is applied to soften the copper's discoloration, allowing you to enjoy its mellow texture for years to come.
  • The high level of craftsmanship passed down through three generations has earned this manufacturer numerous awards.
The workshop

The workshop

Fukido, Japan

Since its founding in 1945, when its founder, Tomiji Fujii, opened his own shop, Fukido has been crafting hammered copperware in Tsubame City, Niigata Prefecture, for three generations. Currently, the craft is carried on by father and son, Hiroshi Fujii, the second generation, and Ken Fujii, the third generation.

The craft, which involves annealing a single copper plate and hammering it with a hammer and chisel, has been carried on with the joy of the user in mind, as symbolized by the motto "The Heart of the Millstone." The beautiful shapes and diverse patterns resulting from meticulous work have been highly praised, earning the company numerous awards. While preserving traditional techniques, the company continues to strive to create copperware that is suited to modern lifestyles.

Use cases

  • When used as a kettle or pot, the high thermal conductivity allows water to boil quickly.
  • Pour cold drinks into a copper cup and enjoy the refreshing taste.
  • The lustre and patina increase with use, allowing you to use it as an everyday tool.

FAQ

Is it difficult to maintain?

Gently wiping with a soft cloth will gradually enhance the lustre and patina. If stains are noticeable, wipe with a damp, wrung-out cloth, then dry with a dry cloth.

What happens if the vessel breaks after years of use?

Dents and other damage can be repaired. Repair and maintenance costs are charged separately.