Byway Secret 2 by Hiroshi Iwahara

Elegance and Rarity

Extremely rare collector's piece. Discover an exceptional collaboration between master Hiroshi Iwahara and the prestigious Izumiya shop. This limited edition of "Byway Secret 2" is more than a puzzle box: it is a vibrant tribute to Edo-period art, featuring a famous engraving inspired by Utagawa Kuniyoshi: a tiger formed by a cluster of cats.

An Artistic Masterpiece: Kuniyoshi's Cats

This box stands out with its unique panel. Far from classic geometric patterns, one side features a spectacular engraving capturing the playful spirit of 19th-century Ukiyo-e prints. Look closely: what appears to be a tiger is actually composed of several cats in acrobatic poses. The other sides are dressed in traditional Yosegi-Zaiku marquetry, creating a striking contrast between geometric tradition and figurative illustration.

The Trap of the "Byway"

True to the "Byway Secret" series, this box is designed to lead you astray. It contains two chambers. The first opens with disconcerting ease, but don't be fooled: the real treasure is hidden in the second chamber. It will take 10 precise moves and a good dose of logic to understand how the side panels intertwine and interact, reinventing the traditional locking bar mechanism.

Technical Specifications

Condition: Pre-Owned - Rare Collector's Item in good condition - A small scratch on the tiger lid and slight gap on the yosegi lid (see photos above)

Creator: Hiroshi Iwahara (Karakuri Creation Group)

Edition: Limited for Izumiya

Design: "Tiger/Cats" Engraving (Kuniyoshi Style) & Yosegi

Mechanism: 2 Rooms (1st easy / 2nd: 10 steps)

Creation date: 06/2002

External dimensions: 12.0 × 8.4 × 6.4 cm

Materials: Walnut, Katsura, etc.

Included: Original gift box and solution