Kamakura Lacquerware

Kamakura lacquerware as viewed from behind. A sign of good craftsmanship.


The makers signature



Kamakura-Bori

"In Kamakura, there are a good many temples ans shrines in which are treasured several pieces of Buddhist sculpture, including altar fittings and art works which were influenced by Chinese style and flavor in olden times.

The Kamakura-Bori Carving is a work of industrial art with a seven-century-old history, the handcraft of which claims as its origin, the traditional art of Buddhist sculpture, and has been handed down to the present-day artisans.

To meet the requirements of the changing times, continued efforts have been made to improve the designs and other aspects, with special importance being always attached to the preservation of the traditional art of making this carved lacquerware.

Materials - Gingko wood - Katsura wood from Hokkaido (something like camphor wood), big trees each measuring over 80cm in diamter.

Coatings - 7 to 13 times lacquer application"

Kamakura Lacquerware

Laquerware from a visit to Kamakura in 1995. The tray is still the same as the day it was purchased. It has not warped or suffered any signs of aging or decay. It has been kept out of direct sunlight. If properly cared for, this tray could be on display in a museum someday in the distant future. That is the type of craftsmanship practiced in the creation of Kamakura Laquerware. Painstaking attention to detail, quality of craftsmanship, proper prepartion and quality materials.


Light of Day Workshop Hall, located at 3-12-19 Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture

A link to the Light of Day Workshop Hall (in Japanese)

Kamakura Lacquerware

Japanese Kamakura Lacquered Wood is a Buddhist tradition that has been passed down in history for over 800 years. Kamakura is famous for its sculpted wooden trays. They are flawlessly made and meticulously lacquered. Japanese craftsmanship at its finest.


Light of Day Workshop Hall, located at 3-12-19 Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture

From the workshop website "(We are) a very strong (workshop) among lacquer ware, especially "lacquer and wood" to get the warmth of Cedar. (We craft) jujube tea box, etc., to allow us to meet any customer orders, and all repeated daily in artisan training workshop. Based on 800 years of tradition, (we) work to protect exactly the sight, and also (look forward to) a new challenge every year."

A link to the Light of Day Workshop Hall (in Japanese)

Kamakura Lacquerware Trade Association Website (in Japanese)

Japanese Arts Website Section on Lacquerwork