JAPANESE LACQUER Meaning and
Definition
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Japanese lacquer, also known as urushi, is a traditional and highly regarded decorative technique that has been practiced in Japan for over 2,000 years. It involves applying several layers of natural lacquer, obtained from the sap of the urushi tree, to various objects such as wood, metal, or even cloth. The process of creating Japanese lacquerware is intricate and time-consuming, requiring great skill and patience.
The lacquer itself is a unique material that undergoes a complex curing process. It is mixed with pigments, powders, or other ingredients to achieve the desired color and effect. Each layer of lacquer is carefully applied, allowed to dry, and then smoothed and polished before the next layer is added, resulting in a glossy and durable finish.
Japanese lacquerware comes in a wide variety of forms, including bowls, trays, boxes, and furniture. These pieces are often adorned with intricate designs, executed through various decorative techniques such as maki-e (gold or silver powder sprinkled onto wet lacquer), raden (mother-of-pearl inlay), and chinkin (engraving on metal covered by laquer).
Due to its high artistic and cultural value, Japanese lacquer has become synonymous with elegance and refinement. Its unique combination of functionality and beauty has made it highly collectible and sought after by collectors and enthusiasts around the world.
In addition to its aesthetic qualities, Japanese lacquerware also possesses excellent durability and resistance to heat, water, and chemicals, making it a prized material not only for decorative purposes but also for practical everyday use.
Common Misspellings for JAPANESE LACQUER
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Etymology of JAPANESE LACQUER
The word "lacquer" itself comes from the Portuguese word "lacre", which means "sealing wax". This term was used during the time of Portuguese colonization in Asia and was later adopted into English.
The term "Japanese lacquer" refers to the traditional lacquerware produced in Japan. The word "lacquer" in this context originates from the Sanskrit word "laksha", which refers to the hardened resinous substance obtained from the sap of the lacquer tree, scientifically named "Toxicodendron vernicifluum". The lacquer tree is native to East Asia, including Japan. The sap of this tree is processed and used to create the distinctive Japanese lacquer.
The art of Japanese lacquerware, also known as Shikki, has a long history in Japan, dating back over 9,000 years.
