Why Japanese Calligraphy Brushes Are So Expensive | So Expensive

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  • Опубліковано 8 жов 2021
  • A handmade calligraphy brush, custom made for a master calligrapher, can cost over $1,000. At Hata Bunshindou each brush tip is made by a single artisan. It's a delicate process that can take over a month to complete. But you can find a beginner calligraphy brush for less than $15. So what makes these brushes unique? And why are they so expensive?
    You can learn more about Yoshiyuki Hata's workshop here: bunshindou.com/en/
    And to see more of Daizo Kaneko's calligraphy: www.kanekodaizo.com
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    Why Japanese Calligraphy Brushes Are So Expensive
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 3,1 тис.

  • @dannyzero692
    @dannyzero692 2 роки тому +11964

    "Why are your things so expensive."
    Japan: Quality
    France: cause it's French

    • @user-aaa371
      @user-aaa371 2 роки тому +207

      Y e s

    • @4shimaru777
      @4shimaru777 2 роки тому +282

      @@user-aaa371 oui

    • @4f52
      @4f52 2 роки тому +469

      Expensive thing: 😡
      Expensive thing, Japan: 😱😍 😫🍆✊💦

    • @xxxxxx5868
      @xxxxxx5868 2 роки тому +269

      @@4f52 Fr, mfs nowadays think everything quality is from Japan

    • @mrfish.-
      @mrfish.- 2 роки тому +252

      @@4f52 the amount of emojis you used is shameful.

  • @keh1396
    @keh1396 2 роки тому +11641

    I love how all these Japanese stories are almost the same and show the same quality. Patience and humility. They spend decades learning a craft and still find the urge to learn more.

    • @jessechen2013
      @jessechen2013 2 роки тому +81

      ...Japan only had Calligraphy, language, pen...etc after they visited China during Tang dynasty. All these skills were later educated in Japan by a Chinese Monk Jianzhen. I'm totally fine with western media praise Japan, but it seems like it is also trying to remove the culture from China and label it as 'Japan'.

    • @kys4s4c
      @kys4s4c 2 роки тому +375

      @@jessechen2013 No one is trying to do that it's your own insecurity speaking

    • @abcdtemp
      @abcdtemp 2 роки тому +32

      @@kys4s4c yes

    • @nag0074
      @nag0074 2 роки тому +56

      @@jessechen2013 you are just insecure

    • @AbdulAziz-fg7mr
      @AbdulAziz-fg7mr 2 роки тому +116

      @@jessechen2013 you can't take credit from their own hard work

  • @sisirkattempudi7155
    @sisirkattempudi7155 Рік тому +83

    About the broken lines:
    I have just had the opportunity to speak to a professional Japanese Calligrapher. She told me that in the advanced levels of Japanese Calligraphy, the emphasis is on conveying the meaning of the letter or word through the way it's written, kind of like Abstract Paintings, rather than producing a perfect looking letter. In the beginning phases, you are expected to write without broken lines but later you can break the rules to convey more meaning.

    • @usokkithetree8738
      @usokkithetree8738 11 місяців тому +2

      Which is just another way of saying they weren’t doing it right.

  • @christieintexas
    @christieintexas 2 роки тому +523

    He makes his craft look so easy yet, it's truly labour intensive. It's a pleasure to watch their talents being passed down generation to generation yet, the quality still remains amazing. No corners are cut, it's just pure talent and passion.

    • @jetpower6601
      @jetpower6601 2 роки тому +6

      @@paddor Well to be fair, alot of time is poured into every individual brush. Not only that but doing the same thing for decades and simply refining your craft, it wears on the mind. Plus the business side, like they said, sourcing and selling it a problem. The entire business is larborous.

  • @uchihasasuke224
    @uchihasasuke224 2 роки тому +15259

    other than the brush itself, the next shocking thing is that *he’s 70*

    • @Duanhai92
      @Duanhai92 2 роки тому +1653

      He looks 50, it’s like he stopped aging when he started this craft.

    • @marcowulliampopirers2216
      @marcowulliampopirers2216 2 роки тому +256

      @Areave Yusof u sure? where i live most 50yo look far worse than him

    • @notthecutestanimal8849
      @notthecutestanimal8849 2 роки тому +498

      @@marcowulliampopirers2216 fr. man looks better than half of the 40-some-odd year olds i’ve met

    • @_Super_Hans_
      @_Super_Hans_ 2 роки тому +173

      Of course he's aged well he's making $1000 a pop selling paintbrushes it's hardly a stressful existence is it

    • @ypob2007
      @ypob2007 2 роки тому +209

      @@notthecutestanimal8849 40? He looks better than my 21 Y.O. sister

  • @aenirrinea523
    @aenirrinea523 2 роки тому +5090

    "It's about making a brush that suits each person."
    Imagine having a shop ala Ollivander Wands but for brushes.

    • @ismaeelmahmood7259
      @ismaeelmahmood7259 2 роки тому +73

      @@likemyice3710 not necessarily, 1.3k is far from the budget of 'only rich people'. Tho I admit you have to be very dedicated to what you do to pay that amount.

    • @ismaeelmahmood7259
      @ismaeelmahmood7259 2 роки тому +34

      @Joe Marley how does that undermine anything i said in my last comment?

    • @OfficialTigerino
      @OfficialTigerino 2 роки тому +13

      imagine of your old customer goes on to be a mass murder

    • @maxhg2056
      @maxhg2056 2 роки тому +6

      @@ismaeelmahmood7259 for professionals and for rich persons who want to prepare presents for professionals.

    • @whoopshey826
      @whoopshey826 2 роки тому +13

      That shit made my stomach weak at imagining how much money I'd drop for MY pen. That chose ME. Instead of buying all these ones only to go back to one I've liked since 2nd grade I got at a grocery store.

  • @ryans6016
    @ryans6016 2 роки тому +2330

    Master brushmaker: “You don’t want the brush to produce broken lines.”
    Master calligrapher: *Proceeds to make nothing but broken lines*

    • @Tanya-du2cw
      @Tanya-du2cw 2 роки тому +73

      😂 exactly!

    • @immortalized_onion
      @immortalized_onion 2 роки тому +347

      His point probably got lost in the translation, and we probably don't know what he would've meant either way.

    • @jacklinks6097
      @jacklinks6097 2 роки тому +16

      First thing I noticed.

    • @eye1dry138
      @eye1dry138 2 роки тому +34

      Yeah its all bs

    • @joshyingling
      @joshyingling 2 роки тому +49

      @@eye1dry138 lots of bs not sure if it’s all bs. I look at the master calligrapher and the lines looked like he should have gotten more ink on several occasions

  • @johnbobbitt6470
    @johnbobbitt6470 2 роки тому +86

    i find myself becoming emotional watching this. I’m a third generation American calligrapher and photorealistic artist, and some of my earliest memories are with my grandmother, learning the form of my letters. As an adult, I take great pride in each one, as it represents her and my family. When in daily life I hand someone a list, I’m incredibly proud when they freeze and ask if I’m the one who wrote something so beautiful.
    Each mistake is by itself heartbreaking and a failure. I’ve spent weeks on a project just to slip and ruin a piece in such a way that no one else will notice, but that she would spot from across the room on a cloudy day. Yes, the brush matters. Yes, the ink matters. And i’m very touched that somewhere in the world exists those who would spend just as much time and effort to provide me with the materials I need to make my family proud.

    • @ambershen6759
      @ambershen6759 2 роки тому +1

      Wow

    • @za2963
      @za2963 2 роки тому

      Amazing

    • @venivyyy
      @venivyyy 2 роки тому

      didn't need to tear up today but okay thanks lol

    • @known3617
      @known3617 2 роки тому

      I don’t understand these emotions but good for you son.

    • @daveedwards7366
      @daveedwards7366 Рік тому

      Beautiful comment!!!

  • @dzdz6421
    @dzdz6421 2 роки тому +6269

    Seeing how delicate the process is those brushes are definitely expensive.

    • @rockycycle2682
      @rockycycle2682 2 роки тому +3

      They just mentioned each costs around 13000 usd

    • @KolRevon
      @KolRevon 2 роки тому +32

      @@rockycycle2682 No. They said 13 hundered dollars = 1300$

    • @rodo8603
      @rodo8603 2 роки тому +4

      other than the brush itself, the next shocking thing is that he’s 70

    • @felicitystiggitystone7018
      @felicitystiggitystone7018 2 роки тому +8

      @Ro do someone literally just said that in the comment above this one

    • @jesusislord6545
      @jesusislord6545 2 роки тому +1

      Repent to Jesus Christ!!’
      “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”
      ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭4:23‬ ‭NIV‬‬

  • @blackdog6345
    @blackdog6345 2 роки тому +3559

    HE'S 70? Damn he looks about 40, I hope I look that good when I get to that age.

    • @arcturionblade1077
      @arcturionblade1077 2 роки тому +187

      That was my first thought. He looks like middle aged, not an elderly gentleman!

    • @sabreeemneely
      @sabreeemneely 2 роки тому +149

      Rice. Instead of hamburgers might be a reason.

    • @brandnewayurveda1835
      @brandnewayurveda1835 2 роки тому +64

      My first impression was that only.... Reason is Vinegar , Kanji , And Sour ingredients in diet along with light watery ingredients like greens and Rice. Everything helps to improve lymphatics and blood which eventually improves skin texture... Hope I will look that young too... It's my dream.

    • @sabreeemneely
      @sabreeemneely 2 роки тому +3

      @@brandnewayurveda1835 Yeah my point is they rarely eat cheese. I can expound but I think people get what I'm saying.

    • @AzmiMaulanaHamdani
      @AzmiMaulanaHamdani 2 роки тому +30

      Asian don't look like their age so yeah it's pretty common

  • @williamfalck4882
    @williamfalck4882 2 роки тому +166

    As a silversmith I can clearly see why they want high end tools with precision. I sometimes use tools of 0.1mm to create symbols and runes etc.
    Really admire people who create quality.

    • @Pirates.27
      @Pirates.27 Рік тому +1

      Wow runes? I would love to see your work.

  • @moritzrossbroich
    @moritzrossbroich 2 роки тому +22

    I have so much respect for those traditional, highly skilled craftsmen

  • @redachija2976
    @redachija2976 2 роки тому +6784

    Did calligraphy when I was in high school. It was a required but minor part of a subject. I found it tedious but everyone had praised me for my calligraphy skills and I've even joined a few contests for it (never won though). And I must say, the quality of calligraphy brushes makes a HUGE difference. In my experience, no matter how "good" I was, if my brush was trash, my result would be trash. My mom invested in a good quality calligraphy brush because she believes that if one is spending money, might as well go for quality, and it made such a huge difference for my amateur skills.

    • @infallibleblue
      @infallibleblue 2 роки тому +92

      I hope you can get one of these brushes.

    • @GodzHarleyGirlStudio
      @GodzHarleyGirlStudio 2 роки тому +37

      @@infallibleblue I'd like to know where to get one.

    • @samuraiboi2735
      @samuraiboi2735 2 роки тому +91

      I think my dad has one of this caligraphy brushes.Well i never knew it was a caligraphy brush until quite recent.I once used to use the caligraphy brush as a paint brush and just do painting until i figure out its true worth

    • @thejadedcommenter7371
      @thejadedcommenter7371 2 роки тому +174

      Exactly. The only people that say “an artist never blames their tools” are non-artists that have never actually tried to make good-quality work with poor-quality tools.

    • @HAIRHOLIC_1
      @HAIRHOLIC_1 2 роки тому +63

      It’s the same for make up brushes, if they are trash, made with cheap materials, all your pores and fine lines will show, but it the brushes are good but the make up is trash you can still achieve great work, I’ve even contemplated using good quality painting brushes for make up.

  • @lamdao1242
    @lamdao1242 2 роки тому +1810

    Whenever I visit Japan, I notice it’s cultural emphasis on Craftmanship. It is a culture which truly honours the craft and its expert.

    • @rodo8603
      @rodo8603 2 роки тому +9

      other than the brush itself, the next shocking thing is that he’s 70

    • @dragon12234
      @dragon12234 2 роки тому +41

      Iirc a large part of it comes from that historically Japan never had much in the way of natural resources, relative to other places, so they had to maximise what they got

    • @mosasako4679
      @mosasako4679 2 роки тому +2

      It really has so much in common with germany.

    • @nasserazizi9567
      @nasserazizi9567 2 роки тому

      Katana sword joined the chat

    • @ggraverobber
      @ggraverobber 2 роки тому +6

      @@mosasako4679 Really? To me it seems Germans have long abandoned their love for culture, heritage and even their own people.

  • @RejectedInch
    @RejectedInch 2 роки тому +129

    This reminds me my very Western brushes, that i bought when i was a studdent at the art school. I had 2 sets: 1, "cheap" ( high quality synthetic), for mixing colors and trace rough lines of a drawing. Another set for the final work and fine details made with natural hair. Each brush costed around 20-60Euro apiece, in moden money. I have finished the art school 30 years ago and both my sets are perfectly functional, although the synthetic set has lost a lot in terms of shape and flexibility, the natural hair brushes still perfect like the first day.

  • @lolhelp6170
    @lolhelp6170 2 роки тому +39

    " I started when I was fifty now I am seventy"
    Holy shit I would have yeeted the brush out of the window after the two week mark. Kudos to his patience man.

    • @user-gu9yq5sj7c
      @user-gu9yq5sj7c Рік тому

      Wasn't he talking about how long he was in this career?

  • @infallibleblue
    @infallibleblue 2 роки тому +2248

    Simply stunning. As much as technology has advanced, human determination and dedication always amazes me.

    • @himanshidiwan8603
      @himanshidiwan8603 2 роки тому +3

      Same

    • @kurtotoyarivasplata3738
      @kurtotoyarivasplata3738 2 роки тому +18

      Isnt technology advancing because of humans?

    • @brettjc0483
      @brettjc0483 2 роки тому +6

      @@kurtotoyarivasplata3738 yes, but the advancement of technology has made many industries automated and computer-assisted.

    • @kurtotoyarivasplata3738
      @kurtotoyarivasplata3738 2 роки тому +1

      @@brettjc0483 ok i guess

    • @rodo8603
      @rodo8603 2 роки тому

      other than the brush itself, the next shocking thing is that he’s 70

  • @anoopkr508
    @anoopkr508 2 роки тому +2030

    Guess japanese people take 20 years for perfection in their way. Have seen many videos after subscribing this channel. But amazed to know that why everyone take that much time !!!!!!!

    • @wph3417
      @wph3417 2 роки тому +43

      Rome wasn't built in a day, everything takes time ♡

    • @GrimYak
      @GrimYak 2 роки тому +45

      TBH i think some of it is over stated. Everything in japan takes years to master for some crafts maybe but some is just plain BS. I saw an episode ones that said grilling an eel takes years to master which is purely BS.

    • @stickman9845
      @stickman9845 2 роки тому +3

      @@GrimYak ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡° )...
      Have a good day 👋

    • @luvella9795
      @luvella9795 2 роки тому +10

      @@GrimYak the weaboos are crying

    • @darrinpennington
      @darrinpennington 2 роки тому +5

      It's said figuratively. It's taken him 20 yrs to make a brush of this quality.

  • @andyzhang7890
    @andyzhang7890 2 роки тому +31

    Every time I watch one of these one of these videos, my mind gets blown yet again at the dedication artisans in Japan have for their craft. In the most flattering way possible, it’s absolutely insane

  • @jennylawson1980
    @jennylawson1980 2 роки тому +3

    I have watched many artisans and craftsmen over the years but the highest level of respect belongs to the masters such as this. I understand ink brushes but not as well as my watercolor brushes, every creator, every artist has a unique way of expression in their work and requires different brushes none are exactly alike. Honor and respect for these masters of such a detailed and difficult skill to master properly.

  • @KC-nr3ou
    @KC-nr3ou 2 роки тому +746

    Whoever you are, you are one of the best narrators I’ve ever heard. Hundreds of audiobooks included. You should think about doing that if you aren’t already.

    • @ronniedarko2536
      @ronniedarko2536 2 роки тому +55

      Her name is Ligma.

    • @ShreeyaShukla
      @ShreeyaShukla 2 роки тому +4

      She definitely doesn't know that the plural for hair is "hair" and not "hairs"

    • @sage5932
      @sage5932 2 роки тому +226

      ​@@ShreeyaShukla You're wrong. When talking about strands of hair, the plural is hairs. You can literally google this in 2 seconds

    • @takvacs
      @takvacs 2 роки тому +115

      @@ShreeyaShukla Oooh. You tried.

    • @Mark-dy9pc
      @Mark-dy9pc 2 роки тому +23

      @@takvacs 🤣savage

  • @funklestiltskin6140
    @funklestiltskin6140 2 роки тому +1767

    As someone who sells both low and high quality brushes and knows a bit about what goes into them, the idea of such quality makers being forced to combine synthetic and natural hair due to lack of supply breaks my heart. That would massively and quite noticeably reduce the quality and absorption of a precision specialty brush like that. Not that synthetic hair doesn’t have a place in larger scale art mediums mind you but for something like calligraphy you NEED natural hair, and good quality natural hair as well.

    • @Genevieve1023
      @Genevieve1023 2 роки тому +61

      I don't even like the effects I get with synthetic hair, and all I'm doing is my makeup, let alone an art piece.

    • @walshy2116
      @walshy2116 2 роки тому +24

      Why because the black scribbles won’t look scribbley enough? It’s
      Just black ink and if a guy made a mistake no one would even know it. Those prices are stupid period.

    • @boomerhgt
      @boomerhgt 2 роки тому +4

      That breaks your heart you need to get out more

    • @ebc6970
      @ebc6970 2 роки тому +100

      Some of these replies are so ignorant and just plain stupid

    • @Genevieve1023
      @Genevieve1023 2 роки тому +130

      @@walshy2116 Do you know anything about Japanese calligraphy? What is it supposed to look like? Can you even read the lettering?

  • @user-yx7dp2pl8t
    @user-yx7dp2pl8t 2 роки тому +5

    I love that he poured his passion into a brush for over 20 years, something that will be passed on for generations.

  • @aloistrancy.
    @aloistrancy. 2 роки тому +8

    This is one of the reasons that my favorite sketching pencil is japanese made, The quality is unrivaled.

  • @alexbroere2669
    @alexbroere2669 2 роки тому +637

    I love how these Japanse craftsmen can spend years on something and still say they're just beginning. They haven't mastered the craft. Watched another video on a pair of scissors. From Japan just amazing how a bonsai tree specialist can talk hours about the way the scissors should cut. We cannot imagine how this is. Truly amazing people.

    • @infallibleblue
      @infallibleblue 2 роки тому +82

      @Spin Lockyou sound miserable. However, I hope someday you will be gifted something special and of high quality. I hope you will enjoy your gift because you are just as worthy of time and attention.

    • @gishman2
      @gishman2 2 роки тому +4

      They say that about everything to give it more mystique

    • @hernaniCH
      @hernaniCH 2 роки тому +27

      @Spin Lock I think you need to reassess your life

    • @lucaskp16
      @lucaskp16 2 роки тому +21

      @Spin Lock dude you sound like you are lifeless. Yes mas production of everything makesblife easier but everyone with anough disposavle income will want a high end handmade something at some point.
      Whatever is clothes, shoes, a hat, a knife, a clock. And for everyone else that dont want that it may look like a waste but are usually the posesions people think most fondly of.

    • @Rai_S82
      @Rai_S82 2 роки тому +30

      @Spin Lock That orrrr.... maybe they are just raised with a different outlook on what perfection is, taught that quick doesn't mean better, and are always striving to achieve greatness??
      Sounds like maybe you haven't found your thing yet 😏

  • @andrewbeckett1727
    @andrewbeckett1727 2 роки тому +1538

    literally anything made in japan
    " it takes 60 years to master , you have to start training from when you are born and everything costs over 1000 bucks "

    • @maxmaxneolit
      @maxmaxneolit 2 роки тому +221

      And as a final exam, you have to kill your master and give him an honorable out.

    • @mehtadeepika78
      @mehtadeepika78 2 роки тому +10

      True.

    • @wiiretime3704
      @wiiretime3704 2 роки тому +5

      He started when he was 50 he says it in the beginning

    • @sabreeemneely
      @sabreeemneely 2 роки тому +56

      @@wiiretime3704 Professionaly, narrator said he started as a teenager.

    • @saistylead2992
      @saistylead2992 2 роки тому +97

      @@wiiretime3704 he started that particular brush when he was 50 and it took 20 years to finish is what he said I think

  • @JorryGT
    @JorryGT 2 роки тому +9

    I don't think there's anything like Japanese perfection. Huge respect to the devotion, dedication, focus and tradition of this amazing nation.

    • @user-gu9yq5sj7c
      @user-gu9yq5sj7c Рік тому +2

      I've seen videos of great craftmen and artists and brands around the world.

  • @deborahyeo96
    @deborahyeo96 2 роки тому +3

    Knowing your work is appreciated if the best reward and motivation to keep up with the quality!

  • @sidehop
    @sidehop 2 роки тому +219

    In Japan, having beautiful handwriting is really appreciated but also can be stressed as an important aspect of who you are. I learned calligraphy as a kindergarten in Japan. It taught me patience and appreciating the art of writing each letter properly and beautifully. Making the actual ink from a hard charcoal rubbed inside a small bowl of water some was hard work. It's definitely engrained in the culture learning how to make traditional Japanese tea, wearing a kimono that takes hours, and everything they do have this intimate process. I also want to say these videos are done beautifully 😊

    • @rodo8603
      @rodo8603 2 роки тому +1

      other than the brush itself, the next shocking thing is that he’s 70

    • @sidehop
      @sidehop 2 роки тому +2

      @@rodo8603 I know right? He looks damn good for his age 👍

    • @msDanielp369
      @msDanielp369 2 роки тому +1

      Had me just read how Japanese really appreciate as part of the culture, craftsmanship, and now this...
      ohhhh.... I'm definitely going to Japan!!
      Like your personal handwriting...
      Intimate lifestyle of what you said about the kimono.
      Remembering some Japanese beautiful garden with some copperly oxidized bell- yes yes the beautiful patterns and cyan-teal color mmmm.
      (btw what did you use for binder, when your ink. hide glue? or some quirky Japanese thing like some rare fungus that does something biologically or what.)

    • @Hex-kt2vr
      @Hex-kt2vr 2 роки тому

      I think the word is Graphology - your handwriting is an extention of many things you don't say, but is said for you.

    • @Kashboy1809
      @Kashboy1809 2 роки тому

      That's true for everywhere though. We were taught writing English in cursive and Arabic letter writing and some calligraphy in school. Arabic Calligraphy requires ultimate level of patience and you have to follow rules.

  • @evanchapmanfanman
    @evanchapmanfanman 2 роки тому +627

    I have a very high level of respect for Japanese craftsmanship, the fact that they put their soul into their work even for something such as a brush really commands admiration.

    • @flvffette
      @flvffette 2 роки тому +8

      "even for"

    • @rodo8603
      @rodo8603 2 роки тому +2

      other than the brush itself, the next shocking thing is that he’s 70

    • @shred9178
      @shred9178 2 роки тому +7

      indeed Japanese people are really dedicated to their works.. they work harder than anybody else in this world.. imo..

    • @nom6758
      @nom6758 2 роки тому +6

      @@shred9178 More like their bosses work them harder than anyone in the world, thats why the suicide rate is so high for japanese businessmen. Everything is one side of a coin, and theres always a downside somewhere you ignore, willfully or not.

    • @BeachBoi1000
      @BeachBoi1000 2 роки тому +1

      I hope that stays. People will usually go for Low cost till it destroys quality

  • @roderickmurchison1451
    @roderickmurchison1451 2 роки тому +4

    Very informative documentary. I enjoyed the total peace and focus of both the brush maker and his son and also of the dedication and artistry of the calligrapher.

  • @mrcat3493
    @mrcat3493 Рік тому

    I love the tradition and the pure craftsmanship of the Japanese artisan videos. Keep them coming.

  • @littlefire9526
    @littlefire9526 2 роки тому +913

    5 years old me would just use my sister's Barbie doll hair to paint.

  • @sidneyvandykeii3169
    @sidneyvandykeii3169 2 роки тому +387

    These are true craftsmen. There are less and less true craftsmen in industrialized countries nowadays because demand is very low so the prices need to be quite high. From cabinet makers to brush makers, true craftsman are hard to find but, when you find them you better be able to pay.

    • @Tokito935
      @Tokito935 2 роки тому +2

      Macaronni cheese balls

    • @rodo8603
      @rodo8603 2 роки тому

      other than the brush itself, the next shocking thing is that he’s 70

    • @skankhunt-wy9wy
      @skankhunt-wy9wy 2 роки тому

      Or pay less for literally the same shit 🤣
      There's a good reason why these "true craftsmen" are dying out

    • @user-gu9yq5sj7c
      @user-gu9yq5sj7c Рік тому

      @@skankhunt-wy9wy I think some of this stuff is too expensive but some craftmen do that talent or higher quality. Especially for intricate work or art. It'll take a lot of work and money to get people to program a machine to do intricate work and build the machine too. But maybe it can be done sometime.

  • @TheBlvision
    @TheBlvision 2 роки тому +3

    From the making of calligraphy brush to calligraphy, they are the form of art and the legacy of human culture. I give thanks to those artist and their craftsmanship, so does to the film maker who brings this wonder content of historical weight to us.

  • @poisoncobra8435
    @poisoncobra8435 Рік тому +2

    Incredible job! I hope the art of brush making, and all authentic creative ways of making things stays alive! Knowing how to make these brushes, intricate candles, cloth weaving, amazing! 😆

  • @yizhang7027
    @yizhang7027 2 роки тому +353

    This channel gives me the impression that everything in Japan can be extremely expensive.

    • @bittermelonleaf
      @bittermelonleaf 2 роки тому +36

      Everything in Japan IS expensive!

    • @r3zaful
      @r3zaful 2 роки тому +18

      Everything is expensive there, except for ramens and cars
      Dirt cheap lmao.

    • @GrimYak
      @GrimYak 2 роки тому +12

      Everything in Japan is expensive. Especially in the cities. Want an apartment, unless you are a millionaire you need to settle for a small room.

    • @alyanadrua4153
      @alyanadrua4153 2 роки тому +24

      Japan is a pretty expensive country if we're basing it on cost of living esp in the cities; I've been to Japan multiple times and I always bring extra money just to be sure. The only thing I find cheap there is the food, you get so much for so little money; a Japanese friend even told me that eating out is actually more preferred if your saving money since home-made food is more expensive which is so bizarre imho lol.

    • @ShiratoriIsOffline
      @ShiratoriIsOffline 2 роки тому +4

      @@alyanadrua4153 my dad who worked in osaka for a few years find cooking your own food cheaper, he cooks 3 types of food, then puts it in the freezer which is good for one week.

  • @jakes2305
    @jakes2305 2 роки тому +336

    You guys should make "Why Japanese Go Stones Are So Expensive" - it'd be like this video combined with your chess pieces video. Japanese Go stones are made out of polished clams' shells, stunningly beautiful and elegant, and ridiculously expensive. And the Go boards, too - big 1 cubic meter boards made from centuries-old Hinoki trees. PLEAAAASE make this video!!!

    • @user-lu5us5zk2x
      @user-lu5us5zk2x 2 роки тому +19

      Shogi (Japanese chess) pieces and boards are also very expensive
      This may be more interesting

    • @piplup10203854
      @piplup10203854 2 роки тому +2

      I would love to see this for Go!

    • @4f52
      @4f52 2 роки тому +10

      Why living in a pod in Japan is so expensive: It'd be like this video, the pods are made out of the finest steel mixed with rare meteorite ores, the beds are handcrafted out of silk harvested in the Italian Alps and the only chemical bathroom on the alley is specially designed by acraftsman who took 350 year just to make a perfect seat for your ass

    • @rodo8603
      @rodo8603 2 роки тому +2

      other than the brush itself, the next shocking thing is that he’s 70

    • @elijahbaley5556
      @elijahbaley5556 2 роки тому +1

      Cubic meter? Don't you mean square meters

  • @nadziqa2496
    @nadziqa2496 2 роки тому +34

    I always knew that japanese calligraphy is a beautiful art but damn I didn’t expect calligraphy brush making to be equally amazing🥰 I don’t know, I just find this story so lovely :33

  • @Batman-mg3dy
    @Batman-mg3dy 2 роки тому +189

    Japanese are highly dedicated in whatever they do and hence, they always strive for perfection. It needs mastery in that very object to understand its importance. Some people are just fool who mock others because they aren't capable of understand it. It's just sad and infuriating.

    • @sc_ken6300
      @sc_ken6300 2 роки тому +5

      Thats why japan is so great

    • @tp8170
      @tp8170 2 роки тому

      It cannot be understood without some advanced intelligence and knowledge.

    • @florence.066
      @florence.066 2 роки тому

      @@sc_ken6300 Yes but it's also dangerous there.

    • @akihikosakurai4013
      @akihikosakurai4013 2 роки тому +1

      @@florence.066 no, we have a very low crime rate. Tokyo is one of the safest and cleanest cities in the world

    • @uchihamadara1269
      @uchihamadara1269 2 роки тому

      @@akihikosakurai4013 you're really sakurai? So japanese names are mostly real names? Damnn

  • @johnswanson217
    @johnswanson217 2 роки тому +568

    I think handcraft and artistry is a crucial values of the future.
    When every jobs finally gets perfected by AI, which values are left for human life?
    I think stories behind artists, time and dedication behind craftsman will matter then.
    The whole package of human values, not just a material outcome, will value much more in the near future.
    It's like a non-digital NFT.

    • @mastervz4806
      @mastervz4806 2 роки тому +37

      Did you just describe art as a non digital nft? Lol an nft is just digital art. You weirdo.

    • @deadweight7334
      @deadweight7334 2 роки тому +47

      This is the most zoomer thing i read ever, you know that art was a thing before NFTs.

    • @MARIA-pc9cw
      @MARIA-pc9cw 2 роки тому +11

      oh my god. you can't be serious rn 😭

    • @zumletztenhemd
      @zumletztenhemd 2 роки тому +1

      Und

    • @zumletztenhemd
      @zumletztenhemd 2 роки тому +1

      Und das
      Das

  • @redbarchetta8782
    @redbarchetta8782 2 роки тому +23

    I love watching artisans of all types but the Japanese just relax me the most.

    • @rodo8603
      @rodo8603 2 роки тому

      other than the brush itself, the next shocking thing is that he’s 70

  • @bshwgehkl4701
    @bshwgehkl4701 2 роки тому

    My God! So much effort and patients. Only those who love this job can do with passion. Great work.

  • @glaxianjasrinetarala7622
    @glaxianjasrinetarala7622 2 роки тому +5

    Japanese language is just satisfying to my ears..👌🧡

  • @tanjunjie5588
    @tanjunjie5588 2 роки тому +9

    The youngman's voice is just like the brush, sooo soft and good to listen to

  • @xora2002
    @xora2002 2 роки тому +32

    This shows how dedication to something can really change you

    • @rifalya8114
      @rifalya8114 2 роки тому +2

      It's no longer dedication, it's obsession

    • @ShiratoriIsOffline
      @ShiratoriIsOffline 2 роки тому +2

      @@rifalya8114 it is dedication

    • @ismaeelmahmood7259
      @ismaeelmahmood7259 2 роки тому

      @@rifalya8114 that's exactly what someone without dedication would say

  • @prajakta7817
    @prajakta7817 2 роки тому +1

    These are the people who are GENUINELY doing their work by actually going into their customers' shoes. True to their work. Respect.

  • @ronald220964
    @ronald220964 Рік тому +1

    Real craftsmanship almost lost in the wheels of industry. I hope they proclaim this brushmaker a national treasure.

  • @hilow7541
    @hilow7541 2 роки тому +9

    This guy love his work do much that we can see how his eye shining so bright when he describe his work

  • @game-f-un-limitedgamer8958
    @game-f-un-limitedgamer8958 2 роки тому +8

    Have been making brushes since childhood but says he started out at 50 years.
    The level of personal mastery is insane.

  • @Chi-sf2vx
    @Chi-sf2vx 2 роки тому

    I love calligraphy and find it absolutely beautiful how they make these

  • @Unknown0human
    @Unknown0human 2 роки тому

    I love how he pull from the hair so satisfying 😍

  • @josephjo8350
    @josephjo8350 2 роки тому +61

    Title: Japan
    Short answer: expensive

  • @centeguahan3760
    @centeguahan3760 2 роки тому +8

    I have nothing but high respect for everything Japanese masters do. They do it with such passion & perfection, it's hard not to respect them.

  • @benfurbank
    @benfurbank 2 роки тому +7

    I literally day dream about doing a job like this and becoming a master at it

  • @katzwhite5962
    @katzwhite5962 2 роки тому +3

    If I went to Japan I would end up buying one of these brushes just because....😃. I am so fascinated by their attention to detail. I really want to go to Japan.

  • @matildabenjamin2068
    @matildabenjamin2068 2 роки тому +130

    A FRIEND OF MINE MADE A PROFIT Of $8,000,000. WTF😳 I'M REALLY CONVINCED HE'S DOING SOMETHING ELSE 🤔…

    • @rojorojo4586
      @rojorojo4586 2 роки тому

      This is really depending on your investment curve. Just invest wisely!

    • @ethanmadison6204
      @ethanmadison6204 2 роки тому

      Plan your investments with good portfolio expert and I can assure you that in a few months your account will be more than you dream

    • @crystalhorton1842
      @crystalhorton1842 2 роки тому

      I can't believe it when i hear people selling their btc for doge lol, that why I trade with the best analysts since the last year which i attain maximum success through

    • @nickymisha4197
      @nickymisha4197 2 роки тому

      please anyone who wants to sale he's or her BTC for DOGE I'm here LOL

    • @daviddautel4152
      @daviddautel4152 2 роки тому

      when you invest, you're buying a day you don't have to work..

  • @scarletwitch6023
    @scarletwitch6023 2 роки тому +17

    Such patience and focus! I’m feeling frustrated just watching him- having to pick out each imperfect hair one by one… 😖😩😖😫

  • @MalaMala-os2no
    @MalaMala-os2no 2 роки тому +1

    This series is amazing

  • @lajeannafuller2890
    @lajeannafuller2890 2 роки тому +3

    These videos are so relaxing, I absolutely love it

  • @mastererik323
    @mastererik323 2 роки тому +4

    Love and respect from the United States! I respect the hell out of their devotion to the craft and doing what ever it takes to perfect their brushes/calligraphy.

  • @nllee7051
    @nllee7051 2 роки тому +5

    I hope they continue this craft for many generations.

  • @jyothymohan
    @jyothymohan 2 роки тому

    Such patience and focus... 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

  • @mrch33sehed93
    @mrch33sehed93 2 роки тому

    I bet its very relaxing to create and satisfying when finished 😌

  • @djvelocity
    @djvelocity 2 роки тому +10

    So interesting!!! This content is fascinating! So happy to see this channel back to its former glory 🤩

  • @benblakemore4195
    @benblakemore4195 2 роки тому +24

    THESE DEEP DIVES INTO THE JAPANESE MASTERS ARE JUST SUCH AN AMAZING INSIGHT. SUCH A PLEASURE... THANKYOU TO THE MASTER AND THANKYOU BI 😀😀😀

    • @rodo8603
      @rodo8603 2 роки тому

      other than the brush itself, the next shocking thing is that he’s 70

  • @davianderson8323
    @davianderson8323 2 роки тому

    The best thing happens to me is this channel ❤️

  • @denske1272
    @denske1272 2 роки тому +9

    I really wanted to see the calligraphy guy just go wild with the brush painting like a child with his two thousand dollar brush...or just toss it aside and finger paint...would have been comedically golden

  • @stankythecat6735
    @stankythecat6735 2 роки тому +4

    I love watching this process. I would buy one , even a small one just to have it .

  • @mirunautlus
    @mirunautlus 2 роки тому +32

    his voice is so soothing

  • @basicallyimpizza
    @basicallyimpizza 5 місяців тому

    Just imagine the amount of dedication you must have to an art, to love it so much, that you would be one of the last ones doing it. And keeping that art alive. That almost goes to speak on the nature of humans themselves.

  • @Totajee79
    @Totajee79 Рік тому

    Love this attention to detail. ❤

  • @swtpaige1004
    @swtpaige1004 2 роки тому +9

    I’m amazed and inspired watching videos like these from all over the world. Happy to know that traditions are kept and preserved.

    • @jake9854
      @jake9854 2 роки тому +1

      nah they should just give up n stop wasting time on these handmake brushes. let the machines do its job!

    • @ismaeelmahmood7259
      @ismaeelmahmood7259 2 роки тому

      @@jake9854 your telling JAPAN to use machines? That's like telling America to use guns or British people to drink tea. The fact is that mass produced brushes are already a thing but that's not what this video is covering, this video is covering the high end market of hand made brushes. The high end hand made version of products exists for a lot of things across many countries.

    • @jake9854
      @jake9854 2 роки тому

      @@ismaeelmahmood7259 nah man, handmade is highly overrated. its a way to feel pleasure for enslaving other human from their labor for the duration of the craft. in reality its not much Better than machine brushes

    • @ismaeelmahmood7259
      @ismaeelmahmood7259 2 роки тому +1

      @@jake9854 'enslaving'? Lmao a tad bit dramatic. 'overated'? In your opinion maybe, don't presume to speak on behalf of everyone, especially not the professionals in the calligraphy industry. The guy in the video didn't seem to feel enslaved, seems more like he had pride in his work and he felt fulfilled with his life. How does any of that look like 'enslavement'?

    • @jake9854
      @jake9854 2 роки тому

      @@ismaeelmahmood7259 these handmade brushes r better r placebo effect ok? but if there r dummies willing to buy it, by all mean i guess, its money dump into the dumpster, but oh well

  • @blueballoon2026
    @blueballoon2026 2 роки тому +37

    My respect for Japanese culture, people and it's artistry increases each day❤❤

    • @rodo8603
      @rodo8603 2 роки тому +1

      other than the brush itself, the next shocking thing is that he’s 70

    • @nom6758
      @nom6758 2 роки тому +2

      @@rodo8603 nice stolen comment. Didnt even have the balls to use it as a full comment either, just a reply. smh.

  • @modkhi
    @modkhi Рік тому +2

    My grandpa is a semi-pro Chinese calligrapher and I grew up being sent brushes like these (though of course not these super nice ones, but still handmade and with real animal hair; goat, rabbit, horse etc.) -- in the hopes I would get interested in calligraphy. Unfortunately I haven't really learned to read much Chinese, much less write it, so I never got into Chinese calligraphy. But it's fascinating to see the craftsmanship that went into the brushes I saw growing up. I didn't realize they could get so expensive or take so long to make.

    • @user-gu9yq5sj7c
      @user-gu9yq5sj7c Рік тому

      You don't have to learn Chinese or a language to do calligraphy. Just copy it. Calligraphy is more about the art of the letters.

  • @gosling8308
    @gosling8308 2 роки тому

    its always nice to see a craftsman's son our daughter continue the business

  • @georgelim9933
    @georgelim9933 2 роки тому +4

    Please do high end handmade Japanese fountain pens brands such as Nakaya next!

  • @henryc1000
    @henryc1000 2 роки тому +5

    4:36 I bet those scissors aren’t cheap either! I wonder what brand they are.

  • @moonlightgazer4566
    @moonlightgazer4566 2 роки тому +8

    People: "Nothing is perfect"
    Me: "Okay, take a look at this Japanese Calligraphy brush then."

  • @styrpak1
    @styrpak1 4 місяці тому

    Thank you. I'm very excited to buy two brushes.

  • @aoitakumi9081
    @aoitakumi9081 2 роки тому +38

    My grandfather has one of these really expensive calligraphy brushes. He only allowed my older brother to touch those brushes. I wasn't allowed near😆

    • @msDanielp369
      @msDanielp369 2 роки тому

      "near" 😂 "I wasn't allowed near."
      Up in your memorial

    • @mr.riffian9507
      @mr.riffian9507 2 роки тому +1

      So, Love his brush mor than you 🤣🙊

    • @user-gu9yq5sj7c
      @user-gu9yq5sj7c Рік тому

      @@mr.riffian9507 Not letting relative touch your stuff doesn't mean you love things more than them. You probably are the same about some of your processions. Just because someone's a relative doesn't mean they're perfectly responsible, or that there's no boundaries. I don't see what's wrong with protecting one's things or tools. Especially expensive ones like the OP said his/her grandpa had.

  • @lalmuanawmamualchin2430
    @lalmuanawmamualchin2430 2 роки тому +38

    Next topic :
    Why everything Japanese is so expensive?

    • @1erickf50
      @1erickf50 2 роки тому +3

      Except for copics. Copics are still cheap as dirt there than in the Americas :v

    • @shivamarya5225
      @shivamarya5225 2 роки тому +3

      At least they're noticeably different like the golf ball sized grapes and extremely juicy melons unlike in France where you can expect to pay more for grapes and potatoes from special regions like that's only barely different and i can't even say call them "better" than regular rapes much less pay a premium for them for no reason, like I had their special potatoes that i literally would never buy again because they were literally just regular potatoes me and my friend couldn't even tell them apart in a blind taste test and my guide refused to do the test altogether.

    • @allentoyokawa9068
      @allentoyokawa9068 2 роки тому

      Because ethey make the best

  • @mmveelee
    @mmveelee 2 роки тому

    Amazing craftsmanship.

  • @roisncarroll6078
    @roisncarroll6078 2 роки тому

    Could happily watch him and make the brush from start to finish

  • @renalxdo
    @renalxdo 2 роки тому +4

    You can count on japan to make something so simple amazing to watch and admire

  • @jonnyrox116
    @jonnyrox116 2 роки тому +9

    In '93 I spent some time in Kyoto and while at a street fair I watched a 12yr old and his little sister doing calligraphy on silk flags using a carved sea sponge lashed to a chopstick! The expression in each character told a story on its own! I really can't see how a $1300 brush can make a better product than what these two children produced...or is it just the gallery you purchased it at?

    • @Genevieve1023
      @Genevieve1023 2 роки тому

      It depends on the effect your trying to produce. Like different lenses on a photographers camera.

    • @uchihamadara1269
      @uchihamadara1269 2 роки тому

      Sea sponges are expensive wdym 😂

    • @brobruh5857
      @brobruh5857 2 роки тому +4

      You're right. This is nothing but scam.

    • @havanax8096
      @havanax8096 Рік тому

      I once bought a ₹10 brush local and after some time i bought a ₹160 brush with a finer quality and higher durability, have been using it for 6 years now, made about 20 landscapes and some sceneries with the same brush and it still looks like it was bought yesterday.

  • @tiny_giant3034
    @tiny_giant3034 2 роки тому

    I really love the arts and Can appreciate the craftsmen who do them. The patience and love you must have more this must be insane and tk know that your industry bid declining and quality may decline as well must be PAINFUL.

  • @aex2309
    @aex2309 2 роки тому +2

    As a beginner calligrapher, one hair stand can ruin everything. So much respect for those who can still calligraph without ruining their brushes

  • @kevinsupreme_ph36yearsago59
    @kevinsupreme_ph36yearsago59 2 роки тому +14

    Remember this guys, if a product is handmade then it's expensive.

  • @haleyquinn1080
    @haleyquinn1080 2 роки тому +33

    For your next video you should tackle “Why Living in America is So Expensive”

    • @bassyey
      @bassyey 2 роки тому +3

      That's just a video of capitalism. No master crafting or any skillful stuff.

    • @ismaeelmahmood7259
      @ismaeelmahmood7259 2 роки тому

      @@bassyey were you even watching the video? What art have you been mastering for the past 50 years? And where does capitalism come into play? Is it because it costs money? I guess everything is a video of capitalism since almost everything costs money, few products are completely 'free'

  • @andrewcosten
    @andrewcosten 2 роки тому

    Amazing work

  • @super_vampire_princess
    @super_vampire_princess 2 роки тому

    Amazing work.

  • @morenag.7769
    @morenag.7769 2 роки тому +4

    Ugh….I hate that I can’t read it. But I love the calligraphy it’s so beautiful just to see them write & the strokes are just as mesmerizing as the calligraphy itself.🙏🏽❤️

  • @user-km6cg1mz9b
    @user-km6cg1mz9b 2 роки тому +8

    Кисти очень красивые ,они как произведения искусства!♥️

  • @crimsonfire6932
    @crimsonfire6932 Рік тому +1

    Just came from watching the ink episode. Can’t wait to hear about the paper they write on next.

  • @CarolineNiggAyaLee-Janet
    @CarolineNiggAyaLee-Janet 2 роки тому

    This really explains the concept of KODAWARI.Or this whole series by Insider is really about Kodawari. The general meaning is a relentless pursuit of precision, quality, attention to detail and craftsmanship in one’s work, craft, or endeavor.

  • @yeanhan9487
    @yeanhan9487 2 роки тому +11

    as an apprentice craftsman for kendo armour in Tokyo to a sensei in his 80s, the last segment about the lack of source material is more pressing than most people think.
    there are actually healthy amount of people willing to learn these traditional Japanese crafts but the lack of demand for many things (most likely aging population and also the alluring modern lifestyles) has affected the supply so much that source material providers either switch to other industries or died out.
    in the end, crafts will either die out due to dwindling demands and suppliers or see astronomical pricing.

    • @user-gu9yq5sj7c
      @user-gu9yq5sj7c Рік тому

      People will always do crafts and skill as a hobby. As for careers, it's also dwindles cause the prices are too expensive too. Also, some hobbies or careers can be too unnecessary strict. Such as there's many comments saying they were chased out from ballet because they're average weigh and not thin. Even tho they're capable. Btw, I think that should change.

  • @normiewhodrawsonpaper4580
    @normiewhodrawsonpaper4580 2 роки тому +4

    “Doc all the good stuff comes from Japan”
    Couldn’t say it better Marty

  • @The-three-eyed-Prophet
    @The-three-eyed-Prophet 2 роки тому +2

    i would love a video about those expensive wood working chisels from japan

  • @nathanp8152
    @nathanp8152 Рік тому

    After watching several videos in the series I have realized that the quality is not always what makes the item expensive. Honestly I can't say or agree that handmade products are any better then mass produced or machine made products. It's the time and the effort and mostly the tradition that adds the most value. To be fair, I understand why tradition can cost so much. Alot of these traditions are close to being lost or seen as unnecessary and more sadly forgotten. With technology where it is today ( a lot of things can be made just as well or even better in huge quantities for alot less $) I am surprised there is still a market for these items and even more so how these makers can earn and profit enough to live off the smaller numbers of orders that are being made. Love this series and love the dedication