1800 Needle Jacquard Loom: Tradition, Technologies and Future
1800 Needle Jacquard Loom
The 1800-needle Jacquard loom is the latest Jacquard weaving machine employed for the finest Nishijin products. While a typical Jacquard loom weaves approximately 900 warp and weft intersections per 30 centimeters, known as the 900 weave, Asagi’s loom doubles this to 1800 intersections. This increase results in over four times the fineness of weaving within a 30 square centimeter frame. Such precision enables the depiction of curved lines and intricate details that were previously unattainable. The superior quality and complexity of the weaving are evident in the picture below.
Although the weaving is predominantly performed by the loom, the 1800-needle Jacquard loom still demands the expertise of highly skilled artisans.
Moreover, weaving is just one element of Nishijin-ori, as its production is an intricate process that relies on specialized artisans, each possessing advanced techniques and refined sensibilities.The design process, for example, often begins with motifs inspired by original paintings, which are then reimagined through adjustments in size, placement, and color to achieve the highest level of artistry in textile form. The intricate interplay of countless threads requires meticulous construction of colors by blending selected threads. At times, colors different from those in the original artwork are intentionally chosen to achieve a balanced visual harmony in the woven piece.
This process represents a masterful orchestration of color sensibilities and compositional balance, guiding all subsequent stages, including thread creation and dyeing, to ensure the finest results. The entire production is akin to a symphony, with the weaving factory serving as the conductor, bringing together the artistry and precision that define Nishijin-ori.
To learn more about the development of Nishijin weaving techniques, please visit our blog.
The Technology of Nishijin Weaving (1): The Evolution of the Loom
Tradition and Future
Despite the current decline in demand for kimono, making it financially challenging to sustain the business, Nishijin artisans remain unwavering in their dedication to heritage, aesthetic value, and the significance of Japanese arts and crafts. To safeguard tradition, one must embrace new values, technologies, and aesthetics while maintaining a connection to the core principles of Nishijin-ori. Artisans of Nishijin-ori perpetually refine their skills by experimenting with new expressions, such as Western Impressionist art forms. They are always flexible and adapt to the demands of the real world, which is why Nishijin-ori has survived over a millennium. Tradition is an evolving entity; its longevity lies in its adaptability.
The unparalleled beauty and craftsmanship of Nishijin-ori evoke a profound sense of reverence in those who behold them. Each piece of Nishijin-ori transcends mere product status, emerging as a work of art imbued with the warmth of history and the touch of human hands. These handcrafted textiles forge a tangible connection to the past, encapsulating centuries of tradition and expertise while integrating digital technologies in processes such as the creation of weaving charts. They stand as a testament to the harmonious interplay of tradition and innovation, illustrating the potential of technology to enhance, rather than supplant, artisanal skills.