| TOP / Master Craftsman's
expertise(IYOBE's upholstery technique) |
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The chair making process begins with wood and progresses to the upholstery
stage. Upholstery is the face of the chair. The tension of the fabric
is an important design feature in the chairs' comfort. Some experts say
the quality of a chair is determined by the upholstery. It is a sacred
skill which relies heavily upon the feelings of the craftsman's fingers.
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A classic chair in the Louis XVI style.
The sculptured wood frame is ornamented gold leaf. The master craftsman's
expertise is very evident. |
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Before the upholstery is applied,
cotton is layered onto the wood frame.
The tension supplied by the upholstery fabric effects the comfort and appearance
of the chair. The skill of an expert is essential for this task. |

| National Guest Palace (Kyoto). Easy chair
production in progress. |
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The process called
"wicker work", in which strips of fabric tape crisscross the wood frame.
This underlay provides cushioning for the chair. |
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Rendering (Story Board) |
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Almost a half century of IYOBE's chair making experience.
Designed with skillful expertise, the seat boasts pocket coil springs and
feather padding on the back, while balance and sitting positions are also
provided for. Azuma is also designed slightly larger, for export to European
and American countries. |
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Completed product. |
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Sofa structure of Azuma |
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As a craftsman, he seeks to achieve the highest
quality product. As an entrepreneur, he seeks to ensure his traditional
upholstery techniques will carry into the next generation. Through the
story of the founder Kisaku Iobe, we learn how a craftsman achieved
a great reputation as a furniture manufacturer.
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