The Banshu region in Hyogo Prefecture of Japan is known for its blacksmithing industry which produces notable utility knives, straight razors and a variety of shears. The Tanaka Maister blacksmith operations were founded in 1955, and is famous for applying lacquer and gold lacquer to their cutting shears. You will enjoy the subtle changes in color unique to the natural lacquer, and as years pass, the shears take on a beautiful patina. The shears' blades are stable and sharp; overtime the shear blades can be sharpened to retain their original sharpness.

Ehara Lacquer Works, a Nagoya company that traditionally laquers Buddhist alter fittings for homes and temples, developed the lacquer for these shear through a repeated trial and color adjustment process. The result is a vermillion lacquer that is overlaid with a transparent lacquer, creating a unique luster and depth. This smooth texture, unique to lacquer, is comfortable in your hand, and the more you use the shears, the more they become unique to your grip. The shears are wrapped in a high-quality Banshu region woven fabric that is as protective as it is beautiful. The shears come with a leather case and gold and silver tassle.