On Kawatsura Lacquerware

HISTORY

It dates back almost 1,000 years ago, to Kamakura era.
The feudal lord then, The Onodera Clan, had japan lacquer applied to sword sheath, bow and armor.

Around 1600's, people sarted to make household items such as bowls and plates using lacquer finish.
In 1976 Kawatsura Shikki (Lacquerware) was accepted by the government as one of the major traditional crafts.
Making lacquerware is the central industry in my small hometown.

CHARACTERISTICS

We put a lot of stress in the base layers.
In order to create a piece that lasts several genereations or more, we need to form a very solid foundation of lacquer.
The finishig layer is called "Hana-nuri" or flower coating.

Japan lacquer is very thick and viscous, so applying it evenly by brush takes proper tools, technic and concentration.
We don't polish the final coat.