The term “tategu” refers to all of the fixtures and fittings within a traditional Japanese building, such as shoji (sliding doors), ranma (decorative transoms), partitions, windows, and other wooden elements that serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. Tategu Kumiko therefore refers to the use of traditional kumiko carpentry techniques to create intricate geometric patterns within these frameworks. Kumiko craftsmen carefully cut and slot together small wooden pieces without using nails or glue, resulting in products that are both beautiful and strong. Kumiko panels stay in place through pressure alone, so extreme precision in designing, measuring, calculating, cutting, and arranging is crucial to create the necessary amount of pressure. This remarkable artform, which dates back to the 8th century CE, continues to be an active form of carpentry in Japan today.