Hammer-headed Tenon

Detail: The Hammer-headed Tenon, named for its likeness to a praying mantis due to its extended shape and oversized head, resembles a standard straight tenon but features a head that may be rectangular, trapezoidal, or triangular. Though not as adept at withstanding shear forces as the tapered tail tenons, the Hammer-headed Tenon saw a gradual reduction in use during the Ming Dynasty. Nevertheless, it maintained a significant presence in historical construction, where it demonstrated unique structural features and practicality in jointing and compensatory techniques.

Process: The assembly of a Hammer-headed Tenon involves fitting a component, shaped like a mantis head, into the matching mortise. The enlarged head prevents direct insertion, necessitating a vertical method for both assembly and disassembly. This tenon style, when compared to a straight tenon, enhances the joint’s tensile strength.

Material: Hardwood: Phoebe zhennan (Nanmu), Teak, etc.

Origin: Worldwide

Number of Parts: 2 pieces

Period: Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368 A.D. - 1912 A.D.)

Detachability: Detachable

Automatable: No

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