(1882-1961)The Father of Modern Kinbaku Itoh Seiyu, real name Itoh Hajime, controversial scholar, rope master and legendary artist, is arguably the most important figure in the evolution of kinbaku as an erotic art form in Japan. Born during the last years of the Meiji Restoration, Itoh, a painter, wood block print master, photographer and writer, provides the link between the feudal and the modern in Japan’s fascination with sadomasochism (SM). As an artist, he was extraordinary. As an inspiration to several generations of Japan’s greatest shibari/kinbaku masters and artists, he was unique.

(1882-1961)
The Father of Modern Kinbaku

Itoh Seiyu, real name Itoh Hajime, controversial scholar, rope master and legendary artist, is arguably the most important figure in the evolution of kinbaku as an erotic art form in Japan. Born during the last years of the Meiji Restoration, Itoh, a painter, wood block print master, photographer and writer, provides the link between the feudal and the modern in Japan’s fascination with sadomasochism (SM). As an artist, he was extraordinary. As an inspiration to several generations of Japan’s greatest shibari/kinbaku masters and artists, he was unique.