At the factory in Gifu Prefecture, the production of vases has commenced.
I will explain the process of creating beautiful vases from massive marble blocks in a step-by-step manner.
The general flow is as follows:
Move the marble block to the cutting and processing machine.
Cut the marble block into rectangular or cubic shapes tailored to each vase size.
Cut the dimensions of the vase.
Using a turning machine, carve the rectangular or cubic shapes into cylindrical forms.
Further sculpt the cylindrical shapes into the desired vase form.
Following this, the process continues with shaping the outer surface of the vase, polishing, and progressing to hole cutting.
The accompanying photo shows the marble, called Teresa Rosata, used in the current vase production. Its vibrant pink colour is exceptionally beautiful. While the marble in the factory is often 20mm thick, we received thicker blocks to create these luxurious vases. The weight of these substantial blocks is immeasurable... Specialised machinery is employed to transport the marble to the cutting machine within the factory.
On the cutting machine, Teresa Rosata blocks are processed into rectangular or cubic shapes, matching the vase sizes. To minimize dust when cutting marble, water is sprayed during the process.
Here, you can see the blocks in their cut dimensions, and the final product is beginning to take shape.
Next, on the turning machine, skilled artisans carve the rectangular or cubic shapes into cylindrical forms. Given the decline in craftsmen capable of operating this machine due to ageing, we are grateful for the expertise we can still access.
The resulting marble, now shaped into cylindrical forms, exhibits a pattern-rich stone known as Bianco Brouille, which similar to Bianco Carara.
I also showcase various stone types on Instagram, so please take a look.
Subsequently, the process advances to shaping the outer surface of the vase, polishing, and hole cutting. We are eagerly anticipating the birth of MENN's vases.
