Vintage Japanese Interlocking Puzzle
...from the private collection of Frik-n-Frak
Estimated date of manufacture: Early to mid-60's
These beautiful wooden puzzles are called "Kumiki" in Japanese. Kumiki, roughly translates to "woven or interlocking wood." They are also known as burr puzzles.
This particluar style is an embellishment of the traditional burr to create shapes of familiar objects. Each puzzle is handcrafted, and each is a small work of art. The workmanship is precise, evident in the fit of the pieces; truly amazing from an engineering point of view.
A common thought is that these puzzles evolved from training projects or assignments given to students by the master woodworkers of Japan centuries ago; an aid in the art of constructing wooden buildings using only interlocking pieces, no metal parts or fasteners. This type of construction proved immune to the effects of earthquakes so common in Japan.
This type of puzzle continues to be made today by craftsmen in the Hakone Region of Japan outside of Tokyo. |
