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.
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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
135,00 €
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lacquer tray

Wood/Bamboo/Urushi
45,00 €
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wooden box; Wajima ware

Wood / Urushi
95,00 €
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Dining bowl, Set of 5 bowls

120,00 €
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small plates, Japan 19th century

Wood / Urushi
19,00 €
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2 fine soup bowls

35,00 €
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Lacquer box

hand-painted
55,00 €
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Lacquer box

hand-painted
65,00 €
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1 plate, Maki-E

Bois / Urushi
26,00 €
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wooden box, Japan; 20th century

wood / urushi
85,00 €
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wooden box; Urushi Maki E

125,00 €
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Calligraphy set

Very well preserved
230,00 €
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wooden box; Urushi Maki E

95,00 €
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5 plates, Maki-E

Bois / Urushi
155,00 €
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large pasta bowl

Wood/Urushi, 46 cm diameter
280,00 €
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Lacquer tray, Urushi

1 piece available
175,00 €
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Urushi Soup Bowls

110,00 €
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Urushi Soup Bowls

110,00 €
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Plates/Bowls, Urushi-Maki-E

Price per piece
20,00 €
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small tray, Urushi-Maki-E

28,00 €
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Shoji Bau