Urushi | Lacquerware

The term Urushi describes both the ancient tradition of lacquer art and the lacquer itself, whose raw material is extracted from the resin of the 'lacquer tree' (a relative of the vinegar tree).
Although widespread throughout East Asia, the technique has never been developed to such perfection as in Japan.


The extremely skin-irritating properties of the liquid do not make the handling of the raw material easy. After a special priming, the traditionally black or red coloured lacquer is applied in numerous layers to various carrier materials, mostly wood or paper, for fine pieces by means of a brush with Asian woman's hair. Curing must then take place under absolutely dust-free conditions.
↓↑ further text fold in/out
The finished Urushi surface is then amazingly resistant to heat, water, alcohol, acids and even solvents. Only too strong UV radiation by sunlight is not well tolerated.
The varnish is permanently elastic, food safe and can prevent mould growth.

Pieces of high quality are characterized by a flawless high gloss and the depth created by many translucent layers.

In combination with the very own sense for form of Japanese artisans, pieces of perfect beauty are created.

Urushi tableware feels cool and warm, firm and soft at the same time.

The articles offered here are comparatively simple utensils, as they are still used today in many households and restaurants.

Japanese connoisseurs and lovers of Japanese cuisine will not want to do without the decorative effect and the haptic experience.

Dining bowls red

Wood / Urushi
Article no. 15.09.115
135,00 €
Details page - Order

lacquer tray

Wood/Bamboo/Urushi
Article no. 15.09.117
45,00 €
Details page - Order

wooden box; Wajima ware

Wood / Urushi
Article no. 15.09.121
95,00 €
Details page - Order

wooden box, Japan; 20th century

Article no. 15.09.152
85,00 €
Details page - Order

Dining bowl, Set of 5 bowls

Article no. 15.09.128
120,00 €
Details page - Order

small plates, Japan 19th century

Wood / Urushi
Article no. 15.09.131
19,00 €
Details page - Order

2 fine soup bowls

Article no. 15.09.138-A
35,00 €
Details page - Order

Lacquer box

hand-painted
Article no. 15.09.141
55,00 €
Details page - Order

Lacquer box

hand-painted
Article no. 15.09.142
65,00 €
Details page - Order

5 plates, Maki-E

Bois / Urushi
Article no. 15.09.157
155,00 €
Details page - Order

1 plate, Maki-E

Bois / Urushi
Article no. 15.09.148
26,00 €
Details page - Order

Calligraphy set

Article no. 15.09.154
230,00 €
Details page - Order

wooden box; Urushi Maki E

Article no. 15.09.153
125,00 €
Details page - Order

wooden box; Urushi Maki E

Article no. 15.09.155
95,00 €
Details page - Order

large pasta bowl

Wood/Urushi, 46 cm diameter
Article no. 15.09.158
380,00 €
Details page - Order

Lacquer tray, Urushi

1 piece available
Article no. 15.09.159
175,00 €
Details page - Order

Article no. 15.09.161a
110,00 €
Details page - Order

Article no. 15.09.161b
110,00 €
Details page - Order

Plates/Bowls, Urushi-Maki-E

Price per piece
Article no. 15.09.162
20,00 €
Details page - Order

small tray, Urushi-Maki-E

Article no. 15.09.163
28,00 €
Details page - Order
Shoji Bau