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The DENSAN mark on tools

DENSAN mark

 

A tool carrying the “Densan”-mark has been traditionally manufactured using the same method as over at least 100 years ago.

Each tool that carries this mark has been put through numerous stringent tests and examinations. These examinations only take place once every several months.

This can cause delivery delays as the examination takes place after the manufacturing of the tool.

Densan Act

On 25th May 1974, the Densan Act came into force.

This Act promotes the conservation and protection of the traditional products and crafts industry.

Background

The start of the 40 Showa generation brought with it the increase in the traditional crafts and products industry.

When mass consumption reflected in disposable machine civilisation, bringing with it pollution and congestion, people became interested again in hand-made items.

Carrying the Densan-mark means that the tool has been manufactured using:

1. Traditional techniques

2. Raw materials which have been used traditionally

Only The Minister of Economy Trade and Industry can provide this

mark.

  1. Each manufactures has to enter into traditional certificate stamp licensing agreement according to the official regulations of DENSAN Association making.
  2. After the formal inspections have taken place and after regulations have been adhered thereto, a "tradition certificate stamp" is placed on products that have passed these inspections.
Our Ikeda and Tasai chisels:
Christian has requested that each chisel be marked with the so-called Densan licence. In short, this licence is strictly given out to craftsmen / blacksmiths who can create work that truly represents the techniques and materials of at least a 100 yr old tradition.
As Tasai is becoming more popular outside Japan, this licence adds a lot of value to his tools.