Anthony Lee - Nov 23 2024

The appeal, types and how to choose Wajima lacquerware

Learn about Wajima Lacquerware

Wajimanuri is a traditional Japanese lacquerware produced in Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture. It has received high praise both domestically and internationally for its beauty, durability, and elaborate decoration. Wajima lacquerware is characterized by its unique ``groundwork technique'' to achieve solidity, and advanced decorative techniques such as maki-e and chinkin. Its history dates back to the Muromachi period, and the craftsmanship that has been passed down continues to this day. Below, we detail Wajima-nuri's origins, technical characteristics, production process, product diversity, and modern developments.

Origin and history

The history of Wajima lacquerware begins in the Muromachi period (late 14th century). During this period, in the Wajima region of the Noto Peninsula, wood craftsmen created woodwork and developed a technique to increase its durability by coating it with lacquer. In addition, the surrounding area was rich in high-quality lacquer (Noto lacquer) and strong wood, and was blessed with a beautiful natural environment, which encouraged the expansion of lacquerware production.

In the Edo period, Wajima lacquerware spread to merchants and the samurai class as high-quality daily necessities, and pieces with highly decorative maki-e were especially prized as tea utensils and gifts. During the Meiji period, it was introduced at exhibitions both in Japan and abroad, gaining international acclaim. Nowadays, it has been designated as a traditional craft and is known all over the world.

The Wajima region was severely damaged by the Noto Peninsula earthquake on January 1, 2024, and many workshops are struggling to survive.

Technical features

Wajima lacquerware is characterized by its fusion of robustness and elegance. The following technologies support this foundation.

1. Undercoat technique

The durability of Wajima-nuri is supported by the ``Jinoko powder'' and the ``Nonokise'' technique.

・Wajima-ji flour
Diatomaceous earth containing calcium silicate produced in the Wajima region is mixed with lacquer. By applying this to the wood, it adds strength and durability to the lacquerware.

・Cloth dressing
This is a technique in which linen cloth is pasted on the joints of the wood or areas where strength is needed, and then lacquer is applied over it. This prevents the wood from cracking and dramatically improves its durability.

2. Decorative techniques

The decoration of Wajima lacquerware is characterized by maki-e and chinkin, which are considered to be the highest level of lacquer crafts.

・Makie (lacquer work)
Patterns are drawn with lacquer and then gold and silver powder is sprinkled on the piece to create a gorgeous decoration.

・Chinkin
The technique involves carving a pattern on the wood with a chisel, coating it with lacquer, and then embedding gold leaf or gold powder into it, creating a design with precision and three-dimensionality.

Production Engineering

The production of Wajima lacquerware involves over 100 steps and takes over a year to complete. Some of them are introduced below.

1. Woodworking

Mainly magnolia and zelkova are used. After the carpentry craftsman has adjusted the shape, cloth is applied to the joints to strengthen the base.

2. Surface preparation

The wood is coated with lacquer mixed with Wajimaji powder, and then dried and polished many times. This process forms the base of the lacquerware.

3. Undercoat and topcoat

In the intermediate coating, lacquer is applied evenly and polished to create a smooth surface. A transparent lacquer is used for the top coat, creating a beautiful glossy surface.

4. Decoration

In the maki-e and chinkin decoration processes, craftsmen draw designs by hand with meticulous care and bring the pieces to life.

Main Products

Wajima lacquerware is known for its diverse range of products.

1. Bowl

Suimono bowls and soup bowls are lightweight, easy to hold, and have a beautiful luster of lacquer, making them popular everyday items.

2. Tea ceremony utensils

The jujubes and tea scoops used in tea ceremonies are representative products of Yamanaka lacquerware.

3. Tableware

We also have a wide selection of products for everyday use, such as plates, chopsticks, and trays.

4. Interior goods

Some items, such as vases and decorative plates, have value as works of art.

5. Modern products

Products tailored to modern lifestyles, such as mugs, cutlery, and smartphone accessories, are also being developed.

Modern developments

Wajima lacquerware continues to adapt to modern lifestyles while inheriting tradition.

1. Internationalization

Wajima-lacquered tea utensils and decorative items are exported to wealthy people and luxury hotels overseas.

2. Design collaboration

Through collaboration with designers and other industries, we create modern products that utilize traditional techniques.

3. Cooperation with tourism

In Wajima City, tourists can experience lacquerware making and tour workshops in an effort to revitalize the region and spread traditional culture.

summary

Wajima-nuri is a traditional Japanese craft that combines robust construction with gorgeous decoration. The production of lacquerware requires a long time and advanced techniques, and each piece of lacquerware can be considered a work of art, as it is carefully finished by craftsmen. Wajima lacquerware, which combines traditional techniques backed by history and modern design, is loved both domestically and internationally as a symbol of Japanese culture.

Article credit: Heidi Cohen (https://heidicohen.com/use-blog-to-sell/)

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