What is Urushi?
Urushi is the sap of the Urushi tree, it can be found widely throughout Eastern Asia. When Urushi hardens, it is very resistant to both acids and alkalis.
Urushi vessels have been found in excavations that date from the Jomon Period （8000BC - 300BC）. There have been cases reported where the original wooden base has completely rotted away but the original Urushi coating has remained with its color and quality preserved. Thus, people have already been using Urushi from several thousand years ago as its strong adhesive properties.
Urushi is a very delicate substance as well. The quality of Urushi changes by various factors, for instance time and weather, collecting method or tool…etc. Every detail could be the causation while taking Urushi from the tree. We can take approximately 150 grams sap from an Urushi tree; the amount is only painting for few bowls, so the material is extremely precious.
The way how Urushi get dried is different from other coating materials. It consists of Urushiol, which reacts with oxygen and hardens through a process of oxidization. For this process to occur, suitable temperature and humidity are both necessary to be well controlled. The drying process also proceeds gradually over a considerable length of time after the piece has been completed. Therefore, a piece that has just been finished should be treated very carefully when it first used.
FAQs
Is lacquer ware ecological?
Lacquer ware is a collaboration of two of the blessings of nature, which are wood and Urushi. As the production process uses almost all natural materials, which means little energy is required. Furthermore, there are not only no harmful side effects associated with the production process but also gentle to the earth.
How to handle lacquer ware?
Lacquer ware can be kept using for much longer time than you think If it is used for its original purpose and carefully taking care of it. There are some points to remember with regard to the way that is washed and stored.
After purchasing,
If you’re care about the specific smell of Lacquer ware, please take it out from the box and place it under a well ventilation area for about 7 to 10 days. On urgent occasion, wiping the lacquer ware with the mixture of water that has been used to wash rice and warm vinegar. Or washing it by warm water can be useful as well.
Before using,
Lacquer ware sometimes hasn’t been used for a long time, the shape of wood deforms and the color of Urushi changes probably if you suddenly pour boiling water into it. It’s better to use it after making it fit with the environment gradually.
How to wash?
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How to store?
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Warning
No microwave Electromagnetic waves burn Urushi so under no circumstances should lacquer ware be put into microwave ovens.
Refrain from using automatic dishwashers and dish dryers As boiling water and hot air damage Urushi, don’t put lacquer ware in these conditions for a long period.
Avoid direct sunlight Urushi deteriorates by being exposed to ultra- violet rays; don’t place lacquer ware in areas that get direct sunlight for long period of time.