There are masterpieces in this world whose brilliance will never be discovered or recognized. They are created by masters who spend their lives holed up in a studio, uninterested in fame or fortune, only in honing their craft. Neither a commodity nor a work of art, these masterpieces are often lost forever when their creator dies. When we came across such a piece by Kyoto-based metalsmith Haruhiko Ikeda, we felt a sense of duty well up within me. We argued and bargained with him, telling him, “You don’t have to become famous yourself if you don’t want to, but your works must be preserved and shared – for the sake of the craft world!” Perhaps sympathizing with our determination, he reluctantly agreed.

Haruhiko Ikeda is part of a long tradition of expert craftsmen who have spent countless hours practicing their craft and learning from the masters who came before them. His dedication and hard work are evident in the ingenuity and beauty of the objects he creates. Long ago, people like him were compared to the noble beauty of the chrysanthemum.

This exhibition, held on the occasion of the publication of the book IKEDA, is a rare opportunity to see original works by Haruhiko Ikeda. It would be our pleasure to share the beauty of his objects with as many visitors as possible.