Planet with a Ring II - Karakuri Creation Group

Planet with a Ring II - A Celestial Karakuri Box

Embark on a cosmic journey with Planet with a Ring II, a beautifully crafted Karakuri box designed by Hideaki Kawashima and produced by the Karakuri Creation Group. Inspired by a planet with a ring, this puzzle box challenges you to unlock its secrets with a clever, non-forceful mechanism, all while showcasing exquisite woodworking.

The Puzzle:

• Dimensions (Box Body): A striking 132 mm by 132 mm by 111 mm (approximately 5.2 inches by 5.2 inches by 4.37 inches).
• Storage Part: A small 25 mm by 25 mm by 25 mm (approximately 0.98 inches cubed) compartment, with enough space for a finger ring.
• Objective: Open the box by navigating the ring, which obstructs the lid but can be removed without force. The solution requires a thoughtful approach—perhaps a turn of the head, both literally and figuratively.
• Material: Crafted from oak, keyaki (zelkova), maple, magnolia, cherry, and walnut, with the ring's grain meticulously joined from six parts of a single board for a stunning visual effect.

Why You'll Enjoy It:

Planet with a Ring II captures the allure of a ringed planet, reminiscent of Saturn, whose rings will be nearly invisible from Earth on March 23, 2025, due to its tilt. Hideaki Kawashima has enhanced this design since its 2017 version, improving the internal structure's strength and updating the display stand, now painted with beeswax for a natural finish. The ring's grain, visible from a direct horizontal view, showcases the beauty of the wood, with side patterns varying to highlight the natural grain. This puzzle box not only challenges your problem-solving skills but also serves as a work of art, blending celestial inspiration with the tactile joy of fine woods.

Explore the Planet with a Ring II and unlock its secrets - a harmonious blend of celestial design and Karakuri craftsmanship awaits!