Japanese artist Tomoko Sato honed her carving skills as a food sculptor, but has since transitioned to soap sculpture as well, creating some of the most eye-catching soap bars you’ve ever seen.

From elegant geometrical patterns to impressive flora motifs and traditional Japanese designs, there is nothing Tomoko Sato can’t etch into her medium of choice. Her craft requires precision, attention to detail, and mountains of patience. One wrong flick of the wrist and a perfectly symmetrical design is ruined forever. Luckily, Sato has over a decade and a half of experience, and is a true master of her art.

Photo © Tomoko Sato

According to Spoon & Tamago, Tomoko Sato was born and raised in Japan’s Fukui prefecture, but currently lives in Kyoto. After developing a passion for food carving, in 2004, she traveled to Thailand, considered by many the home of fruit carving, to improve her skills. Today, Sato is considered a master and teaches other aspiring artists the secrets of the art, holding classes and seminars both in Kyoto and in her hometown of Fukui.

Although Tomoko Sato is mainly known for her elegant fruit and geometrical, which you can admire on her website and on Instagram, she also creates some of the most intricate soap carvings I have ever seen.

Like her edible artworks, Sato’s soap bar carvings feature geometrical patterns, delicate floral motifs, as well as detailed traditional elements from various Asian cultures.

One thing is for sure, no onw would be crazy enough to use Tomoko’s carved soaps for their originally intended purpose.

For more amazing soap bar carvings, check out the work of Italian artist Daniele Barresi.