The traditional Japanese technique of "Yosemono" is now on the verge of extinction. It is a technique that is used to create costume jewelry that is rich in design and decorated by welding metal to metal.

Masaaki Takahashi was exposed to "yosemono" from an early age due to the influence of his parents who run an accessory workshop. He runs a jewelry shop in Akihabara called "MASAAKi TAKAHASHi Atelier Shop" that makes use of "yosemono".

We asked Takahashi to introduce us to the works he creates using his rare techniques and to tell us the stories behind how they come about.

I want to preserve the "goods" that I was told "you don't need to inherit"

Takahashi-san began his career as an architect when he was a student. He also continued to make accessories at the same time. He gradually learned that the "Yosemono" technique, which was familiar and natural to him, was on the verge of extinction.

"I can't stand by and watch this 'yosemono' technique become extinct," he says, reflecting on his passion for starting up the jewelry brand.

He says that it was a thorny road to popularize costume jewelry that makes use of the "Yosemono" technique.

"In Japan, jewelry made from precious metals and gemstones is very popular. Therefore, I found it difficult to get people to accept 'costume jewelry', which is rich in design and does not use precious metals or gemstones."

It seems that there was a time when "MASAAKi TAKAHASHi Atelier Shop" was forced to close.

"When I told the people around me and customers that I was closing down, they told me, 'Don't quit, under any circumstances!' I realized at that moment that costume jewelry and the yosemono technique are loved. I felt like I wanted to give it another try. I am grateful for having met people who understand the rarity of the yosemono technique and are willing to think with me about what we can do to preserve it," he said happily.

This may be the result of Takahashi's passion being conveyed to the people around him.

Inspiration for creating art

Takahashi's own experiences and the inspiration he receives from his daily life influence his work.

"It's hard to create a piece without a theme or goal. The pieces I've made are based on science, which I loved as a child, or are inspired by information I've seen on TV or in magazines. Of course, there are also times when I receive a theme from a customer and create a piece."

Cell
Each piece is unique in shape and color, expressing the changes that occur in a single cell.

Fireworks -hababi-
A work based on the motif of the large fireworks that Takahashi saw as a child.

Neuron
Works inspired by neurons

From the left: Mt. FUJI, Kabuki, and Seseragi
A work that embodies the essence of Japan.
The Mount Fuji piece in particular was created because Takahashi wanted to take it with him when he climbed Mount Fuji.

For customers who are interested in the name or shape of the piece, Takahashi will personally tell them the story. Hearing the story will surely add to the brilliance of the jewelry.

Evolving to create spaces that bring people together

A scene from the Yose experience
(Courtesy of the interview source)

In April 2024, we opened the design school "Yosemo STUDIO" to pass on the "Yosemono" technique to future generations in a fun way.

"From my experience to date, I believe that 'Yosemono' technology not only brings things together, but also has the potential to bring people together."

Takahashi has embarked on a new challenge: not only teaching the "Yosemono" technique, but also aiming to create a space for students to collaborate with each other and with artists.

Brazing experience
(Courtesy of the interview source)

MASAAKi TAKAHASHi atelier shop
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