Sectional model of gold and silver mines at Asban

Sectional model of gold and silver mines at Asban, Sado Island, Japan, in two halves (scale of details 1: 30)

This is a model illustrating the method of mining for gold and silver in Sado Island. The entrance to the mine is by a timbered passage or adit in the side of the mountain; the level and shafts are timbered with round timbers and packing. Notched bamboos are used as ladders, but many of the miners are working on light suspended platforms. The removal of the material is done in heavy packs carried on the back.