Wedged Mortise and Tenon

Detail: The wedged mortise and tenon joint is created by splitting the tenon end, inserting wedges that match the tenon's thickness into the split, and then tightly driving the tenon into the mortise for enhanced security. This method produces a permanent, non-reversible bond. It's typically found in through-tenons that are integral to structural elements, such as the borders of table tops, the bases of chair seats, and the four corners of bedsteads. In the realm of traditional Chinese furniture making, wedged half-tenons were a common practice. Once assembled, these joints were not meant to be taken apart, which posed challenges for repair work, leading to their decline in modern usage.

Process: The wedged mortise and tenon joint starts with crafting a half-lap form. This entails chiseling out the mortise and cutting the tenon to include a slot for the wedge. Then, wooden wedges are shaped by sawing and drilling. To assemble, the tenon is carefully aligned and inserted into the mortise. Using a wooden mallet, the top of the tenon is gently tapped, which drives the wooden wedges evenly into the tenon's pre-cut slot, securing the joint.

Material: Hardwood: Teak, Elm, Pine Wood, etc.

Origin: Worldwide

Number of Parts: 3 pieces

Period: Warring States period (475 B.C. - 221 B.C.)

Detachability: Permanent

Automatable: No

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