tech

December 30, 2025

Leonardo’s wood charring method predates Japanese practice

Yakisugi, a Japanese technique of burning wood surfaces, creates a protective carbonized layer

Leonardo’s wood charring method predates Japanese practice

TL;DR

  • Leonardo da Vinci's notebooks may contain the earliest known reference to charring wood for preservation, a technique similar to Japanese Yakisugi.
  • This method, documented in Codex Madrid II (1503-1505), predates written codifications of Yakisugi by over a century.
  • The charred layer protects wood from water, fire, insects, and fungi, extending its lifespan.
  • The discovery suggests a case of 'convergent invention' as there's no evidence of contact between Renaissance Europe and Japan regarding this practice.
  • Leonardo's extensive notes also covered other material properties of wood, anatomical studies, and early concepts of physics, foreshadowing later scientific discoveries.

Continue reading
the original article

Made withNostr