Exquisite wooden bowls lacquered by hand with urushi, from the Yamanaka region in Ishikawa Prefecture that specializes in wooden products and lacquering. Urushi is a traditional Japanese lacquer that has been used for over 9000 years in Japan, made from the resin of an Urushi tree. It allows the bowl to not become too hot to the touch even with hot broth inside, while giving a warmth that only something handmade can provide. Urushi trees produce urushi a self-defensive mechanism when the tree is suffering- therefore it has many powerful characteristics that Japanese craftsman have valued, including antibacterial and insect repelling properties, an incredible durability and hardness, and a high resistance to water, acids and heat. Urushi lacquered objects continue to be highly valued in modern Japan, and used for important occasions such as wedding and religious ceremonies. Urushi lacquered bowls are often given as a gift to loved ones, especially in a pair. We were introduced to this traditional wood craft company on a visit of craftspeople in Ishikawa prefecture. A family run business, they have been creating wooden cutlery and tableware since the 1950s. Their area, Yamanaka, is one of 3 main producers of Japanese wood products and their products are generally referred to as Yamanaka Shiki. Designated by the Japanese government as an official dento-kogei (a traditional craft), Yamanaka Shikki carry a 400 year history and merges 2 traditional crafts into one: wood carving using a lathe (a rotating device where the wood rotates while the carving blade holds steady), and lacquering. Yamanaka Shikki products are often bowls or cups, referred to as wanmono, and are made to feature the beauty of the wood grain. Do not put in dishwasher or leave soaking in water. Wood, urushi lacquer Rough dimensions: 108mm diameter x 64mm height Made in Japan
