About
Hida Shunkei lacquerware, a stunning craft from Takayama in Japan, owes its origins to an accidental discovery in the early 17th century. A carpenter working on temples and shrines noticed the striking texture revealed when peeling sawara cypress. Inspired, he crafted a tray and applied a light lacquer, creating a finish reminiscent of the hi-shunkei tea jars made by potter Kato Kagemasa.
Feature
The technique of creating three-dimensional products from flat pieces of wood is a characteristic of this craft and is used to create a variety of items. The transparent coating of Hida Shunkei lacquerware allows the beauty of the underlying woodgrain to shine through.
How to make
To prevent warping, the wood is allowed to completely dry before forming. Natural lacquer is processed using a unique method to create a clear lacquer called suki-urushi, which is used to finish the pieces.