"Ten'un", Tawame: A New Form of Kyoto Lacquerware

Artisans are not able to improve their technique without producing large numbers of pieces. Also, without volume the art does not stand on its own as an industry and it is impossible to train successors. This need has led to the production of other kinds of works besides tea utensils. Six artisans skilled in the technique of charcoal polishing now produce a large number of different products.