The History of Japanese Lacquerware

Japanese lacquerware, known as shikki (漆器), has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The art of applying layers of lacquer to wood, bamboo, and other materials has become highly refined over the centuries, evolving into a prized cultural art form. Lacquerware first emerged during the Jomon period in Japan (14,000–300 BCE), where archaeological findings reveal lacquered vessels and ornaments. However, the technique did not become a significant part of Japanese artistry until the Nara (710–794 CE) and Heian periods (794–1185 CE). During this time, lacquerware was used for religious objects and everyday items, epitomizing elegance and craftsmanship.

Later, in the Edo period (1603–1868), lacquerware reached its artistic height with the development of various regional styles. Today, Japanese lacquerware continues to represent Japan’s dedication to meticulous craftsmanship.

Urushi, the Lacquer Tree

Shikki owes its existence to the urushi tree (Toxicodendron vernicifluum), which produces the resin used to create lacquer. Found in Japan, China, and parts of Southeast Asia, the urushi tree is carefully cultivated. Extracting lacquer sap is a precise and arduous process. Only after a tree has reached 10–15 years of maturity can its sap be harvested. The extraction is only done in small quantities over a period of months.

Farmers often plant the trees in controlled environments, carefully managing soil conditions, moisture levels, and exposure to sunlight. Additionally, the harvesting process must be conducted during specific seasons to ensure optimal sap production. Once harvested, the sap undergoes a meticulous refining process that may take several weeks.

The sap is collected and then processed through purification and drying, which turns it into the glossy, durable lacquer. When applied to tableware and furniture, the resin hardens, creating a beautiful, protective coating.

Different Styles of Lacquerware

Lacquerware varies widely across regions, with each area boasting its own distinct style and techniques. Here are some of the most renowned styles:

1. Wajima-nuri
   Hailing from the Wajima region of the Noto Peninsula, Wajima-nuri is one of the most famous lacquerware styles in Japan. Known for its strength and durability, Wajima-nuri involves multiple layers of lacquer, sometimes up to 100, applied over wooden objects. What sets it apart is the use of powdered clay called jinoko between lacquer layers, which enhances the durability. Gold and silver powders, along with delicate carvings, are often added for decoration, making Wajima-nuri highly valued in both functional and ornamental lacquerware.
2. Joboji-nuri
   Joboji-nuri comes from the Iwate Prefecture, where the urushi trees used for its production are grown. This style is characterized by its simplicity and the deep, rich sheen of the lacquer. While less ornate than Wajima-nuri, Joboji-nuri emphasizes the natural beauty of lacquer, with smooth surfaces and minimal decoration. The focus is often on the lacquer itself, showcasing its glossy finish and color depth, making Joboji-nuri a symbol of understated elegance.
3. Chinese Ming Dynasty Lacquerware
   While not Japanese, Chinese lacquerware from the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) significantly influenced the development of lacquer techniques in East Asia, including Japan. Known for its elaborate designs and intricate inlays, this style often features deep red and black lacquers adorned with gold or mother-of-pearl. The craftsmanship involved in creating these pieces is remarkable, with layers of lacquer applied meticulously to create a high-gloss finish.

Japanese Lacquerware Today

Japanese lacquerware continues to inspire modern design and craftsmanship.

However, today traditional lacquerware is far less common than it once was, due to the cost of materials and skill required to create it. Instead, bowls and vessels are more typically crafted from melamine and other plastics, while still channeling the traditional beauty and aesthetics of Japanese lacquerware. 

Still Sitting offers high quality Oryoki bowl made from melamine, a food safe plastic, that are reminiscent of traditional lacquerware, with a sleek, glossy black finish

Oryoki, a practice from Zen Buddhism involving mindful eating, requires specific bowl sets that are functional, durable, and elegant—much like traditional lacquerware. These bowl sets draw directly from the aesthetics of traditional shikki.

A note on our research and sources

Still Sitting is committed to writing and researching informative, engrossing, and accurate articles for our blog. We know there are many places to find information online. So, we work hard to ensure that we are a trusted source for all of our readers. Our blog is intended to help you learn about our products and the cultural and historical subjects that we hold dear. As part of this commitment, we include the sources we used to write our posts:

Encyclopedia Britannica
Joboji lacquerware
Government of Japan: Joboji Urushi Lacquer
Suzanne Ross on Urushi
Wajimanuri