2005 Fiscal Year Final Research Report Summary
Research on the production process, the techniques, and the metallurgical properties of traditional smithery product, Tane Scissors
| Project/Area Number |
16500636
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| Research Category |
Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (C)
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| Allocation Type | Single-year Grants |
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| Section | 一般 |
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| Research Field |
Sociology/History of science and technology
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| Research Institution | University of Toyama (2005)
Takaoka National College (2004) |
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Principal Investigator |
NAKAMURA Takio University of Toyama, Faculty of Art and Design, Professor, 芸術文化学部, 教授 (60198215)
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| Co-Investigator(Kenkyū-buntansha) |
YOKOTA Masaru University of Toyama, Faculty of Art and Design, Professor, 芸術文化学部, 教授 (10029225)
IMABUCHI Jyunko University of Toyama, Faculty of Art and Design, Assistant, 芸術文化学部, 助手 (20310493)
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| Project Period (FY) |
2004 – 2005
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| Keywords | tane scissors / traditional smithery technique / hammer welding / production tools / heat treatment / apprentice system |
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| Research Abstract |
In Japan, blades have been manufactured with the traditional method called "Tsukehagane" (hammer welding) that welds low-carbon steel and high-carbon steel together. This method gives elasticity and toughness to the steel. There are traditional scissors called Tane Scissors that have been manufactured in Tanegashima using this method. Tanegashima has produced iron sand of good quality, and there are many swordsmiths who have traditional smithery skills. Even now, Mr.Makise produces Tane Scissors using the traditional smithery techniques. He carries out all the process by hammering by hand. The scissors he makes are sharp and beautifully shaped. We conducted a study on Tane Scissors as follows : 1.We examined the working environment and tools for Tane Scissors production, including Mr.Makise's original tools, and how they relate to the unique shape and functions of Tane Scissors. 2.We filmed the production process for the record and characterized the structure and functions of Tane Scissors. 3.We observed the structure of scissors under the microscope and examined the mechanical properties. Also, we compared the hardness of Tane Scissors with scissors made in other production areas which use different heat treatment methods. As a result, unique properties of Tane Scissors became clear.
Mr.Makise has acquired the techniques of Tane Scissors production and developed the instinct through experience in the apprentice system. This investigation of ours is significant from the standpoint of preservation of the traditional technique of Tane Scissors production. We also made a preliminary research on iron sand of Tanegashima and an inference on how the traditional techniques have been handed down.
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