Kumiko zaiku is a Japanese woodworking tradition in which precise geometric patterns are created without the use of nails. Kumiko techniques date back to the Asuka period and have been passed down to the present day thanks to the passion and commitment of dedicated craftsmen. This traditional craft requires a high level of skill, as the craftsman needs to understand the nature and characteristics of the wood.
The structure of kumiko-zaiku consists of "jigumi" (the basic framework) and interior shapes called “leaves.” Typical leaf patterns include hemp leaves (symbolizing children’s health and protection against evil), cherry blossoms (new beginnings or prosperity), sesame (health or longevity), and longan (sincerity or integrity). Kumiko pieces are therefore valued not only because of their exquisite craftsmanship but also because of the underlying meanings that the patterns convey.