Yoshino Takeji,Showa period

Yoshino Takeji (1920-) was born in Takaoka, Japan. He learned the basic techniques of casting from his father Takejiro at an early age. Takeji is the fourth generation metal maker of the Yoshino family, which had been employed in the metal making craft since around 1800. Takeji started his metal works when he graduated from Toyama Industrial Art School in 1938. Rather than use modern manufacturing methods he maintained traditional bronze making techniques. Examples of Takeji’s work are held in the Imperial Household at the Akasaka Palace, Tokyo. In 1975 he received official recognition from the Japanese government for his continuation of traditional metal making techniques. In 1989 Takeji was bestowed the 7th Blue Medal of Honour from the Japanese government.