Fukiurushi lacquered bowl, Yamanaka lacquer ware

After the piece is formed and engraved with a pattern, it is processed by fukiurushi, a technique of rubbing lacquer into the wood that accentuates the natural wood grain. Wares processed this way acquire ever more beauty over time as they are used. Another characteristic design is komanuri, a striped-rings design in alternating hues of red, gold, and black lacquer.The kinds of trees used are zelkova, horse chestnut, and cherry birch, whose wood is sturdy and doesn’t warp. The wood is trimmed vertically, not horizontally as is more common, which increases the durability of Yamanaka ware.