Ishikawa [Lacquer Ware] WAJIMA Nuri (Lacquerware)

Categories
Art / Traditional crafts
Area
Hokuriku-Shinetsu Ishikawa
Shops
Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square
Update date
2023-01-26

Although the oldest item considered to be Wajima lacquerware is the shunuri-tobira made during the Muromachi era (1392-1573), other lacquerware items and tools have been discovered at archaeological sites dating back to the Kamakura era (1185-1333), indicating that lacquerware was produced much earlier. During the Edo era (1600-1868), Wajima lacquerware was known for its durability and was being used by farmers and merchants across Japan. By the end of the 19th century, it was also being used in restaurants and inns and its designs had become grander and more decorative.

It may not be possible to tell by looking at the finished piece, but parts susceptible to breaking have been reinforced with cloth and multiple coats of lacquer. Lavish decorations are sometimes applied by the chinkin technique, in which a design is engraved into the lacquer and then filled with colored lacquer. Another decorative technique is maki-e, in which gold dust is used to create a design. Products include a wide range of tableware and small pieces of furniture.

WAJIMA Nuri (Lacquerware) (details page)

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