24983 Living National Treasure KOMORI Kunie (Seasonal Flower Design Sake Cup)

Height 4.1cm

Diameter 6.3cm

This piece is by Komori Kunie, a Living National Treasure for lacquerware. "Urushi" refers to the process of applying lacquer to a base material with a spatula or brush. After applying a base coat to make the base material more durable, various top coats (finishing coats) are applied. This piece is also carefully painted with red and black lacquer, and the body is meticulously carved with seasonal flowers such as plum and cherry blossoms. To finish, lacquer is applied nearly ten times, but the fact that no brush marks remain is the reason why Komori is a Living National Treasure for lacquerware.

The lacquer is based on vermilion, black and dark brown. "There are also pigments such as yellow and green, but does that give the work dignity?" Some pieces are painted with one color, but sometimes the color is changed and painted on a square or round shape. There is a good sense of play there. This kind of lightness is essential for precise work.