Urushi Soup Bowl - Tsumugi

These hand turned soup bowls are Yamanaka lacquerware produced in the Yamanaka Onsen area of Kaga City, Ishikawa Prefecture, a district renowned for distinctive lacquerware and highly skilled woodturning. Yamanaka lacquerware uses the technique of fuki-urushi where raw lacquer is applied and then wiped off repeatedly with a cotton cloth. Through this process, the lacquer highlights the natural pattern of the grain and adds durability to the vessel. Each bowl is crafted from timber cut vertically, following the direction in which the tree grows, to allow the timber to dry with minimal distortion.

These pieces were produced through a collaboration between Japanese designer Ishizaki Ikumi, and Gato Mikio, a lacquerware manufacturer specialising in Yamanaka lacquerware. The designs were awarded the GOOD DESIGN AWARD in 2016, in recognition of their representation of of culturally specific symbols, each with a specific meaning, in the bowls’ diverse forms, as well as for the precision and skill involved in turning each piece.

Fuji Bowl

The Fuji Bowl is inspired from Mount Fuji. The mountain signifies immortality, and its form represents prosperity for descendants and business.

Mokkō Bowl

The Mokkō Bowl represents a symbol in the shape of a bird’s nest with eggs, signifying procreation and hopes for the prosperity of offspring.

Mari Bowl

The Mari Bowl has curved walls that indicate the shape of a historical toy ball. Since ancient times, when brides were given this ball to carry, it has signified protection against evil and a has been a symbol of happiness.

Size

– Mokkō Bowl – φ１１.０×７.４cm

– Fuji Bowl – φ１１.５×７.４cm

– Mari Bowl – φ９.８×７.４cm