Origami-shaped Urushi Lacquer Plate with Japanese Quail Motif

AUD 75.20 - AUD 139.43
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Experience the fusion of tradition and modern design with our Origami-shaped Plate.

This elegantly designed piece is inspired by the Japanese art of paper-folding, featuring corners that beautifully mimic the intricate and delicate folds of an origami creation. Its unique shape and design celebrate the timeless beauty of traditional Japanese aesthetics, seamlessly integrated into a modern and functional piece.

Versatile and elegant, this tray is ideal for serving everything from desserts and appetizers to side dishes such as tempura and sushi, or any of your favorite delicacies. Its vibrant Vermillion Red color adds a touch of elegance, making it a standout piece on any table.

uzura-sha-300.jpgThe motif is Uzura-sha, a traditional Japanese children's wooden toy, evoking a sense of nostalgia and cultural heritage, much like the wooden horse-toy-on-wheels in the West. "Uzura" is the Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica).The word "sha" means wheel in Japanese.  

Product Details

  • Color: Vermillion Red (shu-nuri)
  • Motif: Japanese Quail Children's Toy (Uzura-sha)
  • Base Material: Polycarbonate
  • Finish: Urushi Lacquer
  • Origin: Handcrafted in Japan
  • Choose Size Option
    • 22 cm (8.7") Across
    • 28 cm (11") Across

Urushi Lacquer: Durable Elegance with a Natural Guard

Urushi is a natural lacquer from the lacquer tree (T. vernicifluum, Urushi-no-ki in Japanese) polished to achieve a durable, high-luster finish. Urushi possesses strong antibacterial properties, making it a preferred choice for Japanese culinary implements like chopsticks, plates, bowls, trays, and more.

Ryukyu-style Urushi Lacquerware's Unique Characteristics

In Japan, using urushi lacquer dates back to the prehistoric Jomon period. Southern Japan developed its unique "Ryukyu" techniques over time, deeply rooted in the region's subtropical climate and culture.

Distinctive Raised Motifs: A hallmark of Ryukyu lacquerware is the use of a raised motif technique known as "tsuikin." In this method, lacquer is mixed with pigments to form a paste called "tsuikin-mochi." This paste is spread into thin layers, cut according to the design, and then applied to the lacquered surface, creating a three-dimensional effect.

These motifs often depict the region's iconic flora and fauna, such as hibiscus, orchids, Japanese Hamayu lilies, and the Japanese quail (Uzura,) celebrating the rich natural tapestry and diversity of Southern Japan.

Captivating Colors: Ryukyu lacquerware is renowned for its use of "shu-nuri" (Vermillion Red) and "kuro-nuri" (Noble Black) color pallets. Vermillion Red, associated with the South and Yang, symbolizes vitality, encapsulating this color's lively and dynamic nature. Noble Black, associated with the North and Yin, represents dignity, conveying depth, sophistication, and strength.

Meticulous Preparation Process: Ryukyu lacquerware undergoes a lengthy preparation process, including drying the wood for several years, and multiple layers of urushi lacquer coats to enhance durability.