The book talks about the quality of shadow mostly in cultural context, Japanese and Western. Tanizaki touched on points regarding the beauty of shadow or patina in metal wares. For example, Westerner polishes silver, steel, and nickel tableware to a fine brilliance; whereas for Japanese prefers not to polish them. Japanese enjoys the metal ware when “the luster has worn off and begun to to take on a dark, smoky patina”.

The patina brings out the attractiveness and elegance of age, a “sheen of antiquity”. These sheen of antiquity reminds the past that made them and it creates the surrounding atmosphere peaceful and repose.

I agree with Tanizaki on his point regarding the patina brings out the attractiveness and elegance of the product. Choosing copper as one material can enhance the value of the product itself along the years.

 

From: Tanizaki, J. (2001). In Praise of Shadows. London: Vintage Books.