Kagawa Lacquerware
There are three distinct techniques of lacquer here in Kagawa.
Kinma, Zonsei, and Chōshitsu.
Zonsei (存清)
The surface is carved with patterns, and the grooves are filled in with various coloured lacquer.
Kinma (蒟醤)
Lacquer is applied, and then carved. The carved out space is then filled in with gold power.
Chōshitsu (彫漆)
Dozens upon dozens of lacquer is layered on top of each other, and then carved into the layers to create vibrant colours and patterns.
Brief History of Urushi Lacquerware
Over 9000
years of history
It is said that the earliest records of Urushi dates back to the Jōmon period over 9000 years ago. Archaeologists discovered red-lacquered bowls, and other decorative items which are some of the oldest lacquered items known today.
Influence across Asia
Lacquer was widely used in ancient China as well as parts of Asia mainly as a way to water proof and protect the wooden material. Over time, Japan developed it's own techniques of applying lacquer and eventually evolved to a higher art form.
Artisanal Techniques
As Urushi lacquerware continues to evolve, different regions of Japan began adopting their own unique styles. Kagawa has four distinct techniques, each with a different aesthetic.
A precious resource
There are only a handful of locations that still product lacquer, and with skilled workers declining due to old age, Urushi lacquer is only getting more valuable over time. This is why lacquer is also known as 'drops of blood' due to it's preciousness.
A single lacquer tree yields only around 180 - 200g of lacquer over it's lifespan of 10-15 years. Precisely measured cuts are made by hand and the lacquer is slowly collected over 4 months.
Because the incisions need to be meticulously planned and measured so as to not harm the tree, machinery is never used to extract lacquer.
Iwate prefecture is the largest producer of lacquer globally, and, since there are no synthetic alternatives, the lacquer tree farms are now recognized as UNESCO heritage sites.
Urushi Lacquerware
Kagawa Prefecture, located on Japan’s Shikoku Island, is renowned for its exquisite Urushi lacquerware. This traditional craft was developed over centuries and is celebrated for its deep, complex finishes and distinctive techniques. Kagawa artisans combine refined skill with artistic innovation, creating tableware, boxes, and decorative pieces that are not only functional but also beautiful. The powerful Matsudaira clan took a big interest in Urushi, which helped it become deeply rooted into Kagawa's rich history.