Eisui Oshima

Eisui is the third generation of Oshima Kobo based in the city of Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture.

Oshima Kobo is a workshop of Nikko-bori carving, a traditional craft from Tochigi Prefecture. Founded more than 70 years ago in 1953 by Issui Oshima, who opened his studio after studying with Nikko-bori carving master Kenmoku Torikichi.

Each piece is carefully crafted by a skilled artisan, resulting in something truly unique and special.

Oshima Kobo

Traditional Nikko Wood Carving

Works

  • A collection of carved wooden boxes and tiles with intricate floral and geometric patterns, displayed on a plain surface.

    Tama-te-bako Series

    Nikko-bori “Tama-te-bako" will be close to your heart and gently add color to your daily life. The intricate carvings come to life, and the warmth of the touch spreads gracefully.

    Not just as decorative items, they will also change shape and quietly become part of your life, protecting your precious things and memories.

    This series comprises of the Tama-te-bako set, and all the individual pieces that make a set.

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  • Two handbags, one black and one red, with decorative handles attached by chains, displayed on a small ornate beige stool and a clear stand against a textured wall.

    Nikko-bori handle leather bag

    This Nikko-originated handbag was created by a collaboration between two craftsmen born and raised in Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture.

    Nikko carving craftsman Eisui Oshima of Oshima Kobo has created a bag handle using the cat's feet of a flower stand as a motif, featuring the powerful yet precise carving that is unique to Nikko carving.

    Nikko-based leather craftsman, Masahiro Kawai of Saetta Leather Products, created the bag.

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Kodawari. Eisui Oshima. A man with dark hair, wearing a black shirt and a watch, is working on a wooden piece with a chisel and hammer in a workshop. There are tools and equipment in the background.

Eisui Oshima

"Tradition is alive and flowing."

From April 2024 Eisui Oshima took over from his father, Shusui Oshima, as the third generation representative of Oshima Studio, with a desire to preserve the traditions of the past while incorporating approaches suited to the new era and to create works that move people's hearts

Oshima Kobo began with Issui Oshima in 1953, who opened his studio after studying with Nikko carving master Kenmoku Torikichi.