Oval box in Negoro-nuri urushi lacquer - Kiso Valley

Created by the Shōtarō workshop in the Kiso Valley, Japan, this oval box combines traditional bentwood craftsmanship with Negoro-nuri and Akebono-nuri lacquer techniques. Its vermilion-red and black decoration, with irregular patterns and deep nuances, reflects the richness of urushi lacquerwork in this region. The contrast of colors, the freedom of the design, and the brilliance of the polish give this box a distinctive presence, both as a decorative object and in everyday use.

The artisan
Based in the Kiso Valley in Nagano Prefecture, the Shōtarō workshop carries on the tradition of the region's lacquer artisans, whose expertise has developed over more than four centuries. Under the direction of Katsuhiro Miyahara, it continues to work with historic Kiso lacquer techniques, placing particular emphasis on the qualities of the material, the depth of the colors, and the precision of the finishes. Its creations perpetuate a craft in which woodworking and lacquerwork are closely linked.

Technique and decoration
This box is made using the traditional magemono technique, which involves softening thin wooden boards with heat and moisture before gradually bending them into an oval shape. The wooden joint is held together by bindings traditionally made from wild cherry bark, a characteristic assembly of this craft.

The decoration combines two Japanese lacquer techniques, Negoro-nuri and Akebono-nuri, along with nunome, a surface treatment that reproduces the texture of fabric. Negoro-nuri is based on layering red and black lacquer, worked to reveal the underlying colors. Akebono-nuri also uses the layering of the two colors, but in reverse order, creating effects of depth and nuanced transitions.

The lacquerwork thus reveals a free composition, in which vermilion and black tones blend into marbled patterns. The subtle texture of the nunome enriches the decoration, while the careful polishing gives the surface a deep luster. The fully red-lacquered interior creates continuity with the tones of the exterior decoration. 

Shape and use
Oval in shape, with a fully removable lid, this small box belongs to the menpa family, traditionally used in Japan for carrying meals. Lightweight and durable, it can hold sweets, dry foods, or small personal items. It also finds its place in the home as a decorative object.

Place of manufacture
Japan, Kiso Valley.

Period
Contemporary.

Dimensions
Length 15 cm - Width 11.8 cm - Height 5.8 cm

Weight
143 g

Materials
Wood, urushi lacquer.

As each piece is created by hand, slight variations in shape, color, or texture may occur compared to the photos, reflecting the unique character of this artisanal work.

Care instructions
Clean gently with a soft, slightly damp cloth, then dry immediately. Do not soak in water or use in a dishwasher, microwave, or with abrasive products. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and heat sources.