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"Powder of the earth", Wajima lacquer ware

Art Research Center, Ritsumeikan University

Art Research Center, Ritsumeikan University
Kyoto, Japan

A key characteristic of Wajimanuri is the durability of its base coat. This comes about by heating diatomaceous earth, a kind of soil known locally as ji no ko (“powder of the earth”), and crushing it into a fine powder, then mixing it with the natural lacquer known as urushi. Another reason for the special durability of Wajimanuri is the practice of applying cloth (nunokise) to fragile spots to strengthen them. In this way, lacquer objects of profound beauty and durability are created.

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  • Title: "Powder of the earth", Wajima lacquer ware
  • Location Created: Ishikawa prefecture, Wajima
  • Subject Keywords: diatomaceous earth
  • Original Source: Wajima shikki shokogyo kyodo kumiai
  • Rights: © Wajima shikki shokogyo kyodo kumiai
Art Research Center, Ritsumeikan University

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