Hand-carved wooden chess pieces — example of a custom woodcarving commission

Bespoke Woodcarving

COMMISSIONS

One-of-a-kind sculptures, carved entirely by hand —
rooted in tradition, shaped by your vision.

Made for Meaning

Every Piece Begins with a Conversation

I accept commissions that carry personal meaning — whether rooted in a memory, a belief, or a symbolic idea. Each project starts with an in-depth conversation to understand the intention behind the piece.

Every work is crafted to carry emotional depth and a lasting presence in the life it enters.

All pieces are created by hand using traditional Japanese and Mexican woodcarving techniques, with careful attention to detail, material, and meaning. Clients are invited into a collaborative process — from the first sketch to the final piece.

Selected Commissions

Past Work for Private Clients

Shojin Chess — handmade Japanese style chess set with carved wooden pieces

Major Commission · 2024–2025

Shojin Chess — Premium Art Piece

The most ambitious commission to date: a complete chess set combining traditional Japanese woodcarving with the European game of chess. Commissioned by the founder of Shojin Chess, the piece was designed to embody the spirit of shojin — continuous refinement — through form, material, and execution.

Leading a team of Japanese artisans, Asaya brought this vision to life with precision, respect for tradition, and contemporary artistic insight.

View Shojin Chess
Handcarved wooden dragon relief in Japanese style woodcarving

Commission · 2025

Dragon Relief — Incense Holder

A dragon relief carved from Japanese nutmeg-yew wood for a European collector. The piece functions as an incense stick holder, combining the client's vision with the techniques and aesthetics of Inami woodcarving.

This commission illustrates how traditional Japanese craft can be shaped around a personal idea — creating something both functional and deeply symbolic.

How It Works

The Commission Process

From first conversation to finished sculpture — every commission follows a collaborative process.

01

Conversation

We begin with a detailed exchange about your vision, the symbolism you wish to express, and the context for the piece — its setting, purpose, and emotional intention.

02

Concept & Sketch

Based on our conversation, I develop initial sketches and propose suitable wood species, dimensions, and stylistic approaches. We refine the concept together until it feels right.

03

Carving & Delivery

The sculpture is carved entirely by hand in my workshop in Inami, Japan. I share progress along the way. Once complete, the piece is carefully packaged and shipped worldwide.

Start Your Commission

Get in Touch

If you are interested in commissioning a custom sculpture, I would be happy to hear from you. Please reach out through either of the channels below.

Contact

E-Mail:  business@asayasculpture.com

Instagram:  @asaya.sculpture