Akio Kamei

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Akio Kamei is possibly the best known designer of contemporary trick opening boxes in the world. His boxes usually appear to be artistic wooden versions of everyday objects like radios, toasters, dice, books, etc., but they are, in fact, trick opening boxes. The mechanisms are always ingenious and disguised into the box so that even if you manage to open it, you will still not know how it works. Though quite expensive, they are really works of art.
 
Akio is a member of the Karakuri Creation Group, group of Japanese craftsmen specializing in trick opening boxes. Akio has the following to say about himself:
"At first I began to create wooden boxes with an idea of a secret box and then looked for a broader meaning. I gave it the name "Karakuri box" (trick box) rather than the secret box. Finally "Karakuri box" (trick box) was born. The trick box which you open yourself, can't be opened if you don't enjoy humor. Someone who has no experience with trick boxes and others who have many experiences, toe the same line. Sometimes the knowledge or the experience disturb his trial. I'm usually thinking about how I can deceive people with my puzzles. And so I wonder if my personality has come out in my work."
Proper care and storage of Kamei boxes is very important. Attempting to slide panels and pushing around on different parts, your fingers can easily slip and a fingernail can mar the surface. I personally think it's a good idea to were a pair of disposable latex gloves when handling them. It is not a good idea to leave then setting out unless the humidity is maintained. I keep mine in a display case with a glass of water inside. Though I still have some change from season to season, it is minimal.
Bad Radio
Bad Radio
Book
Book
Bottle in Rome
Bottle in Rome
Box With A Ribbon
Box With A Ribbon
Burr Structure
Burr Structure
Cake
Cake
Cassiopeia
Cassiopeia
Checker Cube
Checker Cube
Coffee Cup
Coffee Cup
Cosmox
Cosmox
Cubi
Cubi
Diagonal on Burr
Diagonal on Burr
Die
Die
Eight Burr
Eight Burr
Eighteen Planks
Eighteen Planks
Gold Chest
Gold Chest
Heart To Heart
Heart To Heart
Hollow Burr
Hollow Burr
Letter Box
Letter Box
Little Drawer
Little Drawer
Love Box 3
Love Box 3
Paper Bag
Paper Bag
Parcel Cube
Parcel Cube
Pentagon
Pentagon
Pile of Disks
Pile of Disks
Pneumatic Box
Pneumatic Box
Rose-Wood
Rose-Wood
Small Frame
Small Frame
Star 1
Star 1
Star Puzzle
Star Puzzle
String Box
String Box
Three-D Box
Three-D Box
Top Box
Top Box
Train Engine
Train Engine
Two Drawers
Two Drawers
Whiskey Bottle
Whiskey Bottle
Wood Plane
Wood Plane
Wooden Lock
Wooden Lock
 
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