Magashiro illusion × marquetry × natural lacquer.
Three crafts layered on a single plate.
Magashiro grain that shifts in color with your viewpoint. Precision wood veneer marquetry applied to its surface. Finished with natural urushi lacquer from Tsutsumi Asagichi Urushi-ten, Kyoto. Three independent crafts converging on one plate — their combined depth is the value of this piece.
SPEC
[Size] Rectangle: 300 mm × 420 mm × H 12 mm (approx. 11¾" × 16½" × ½")
[Wood species] Magashiro
A wood with a strong, even luster. When its grain is viewed lengthwise versus crosswise, the light and dark values reverse — an optical illusion inherent to the material. By precisely combining vertical- and horizontal-grain veneer pieces, a geometric pattern emerges in which the color appears to shift as you move around it.
[Finish] Natural urushi lacquer (wiped lacquer / fuki-urushi)
MADE IN JAPAN
Marquetry
Marquetry is the traditional craft of fitting precisely cut pieces of wood flush into a surface — practiced across cultures for centuries. MORI KOUGEI specializes in marquetry using wood veneer: the thinness and precision of veneer allow for an intricacy of pattern that solid wood cannot achieve.
To draw out Magashiro's optical effect to its fullest, vertical- and horizontal-grain veneer pieces are calculated and placed with exacting precision. Urushi lacquer is then applied over the surface: the optical geometry of the marquetry sinks into the lacquer's depth, and as light falls across it, color and shadow reverse — a complex, layered presence.
Optical grain, the precision of marquetry, the depth of urushi lacquer — three independent crafts, their convergence generating a presence that is wholly its own. → Learn more about marquetry
About the Lacquer
This PLATE is a collaboration with Tsutsumi Asagichi Urushi-ten, Kyoto. Natural urushi has been used in Japan for over 10,000 years — resistant to acids, alkalis, and heat, and a material that deepens with use. As Magashiro's optical illusion sinks into the lacquer's black and rises under light, the essential character of MARQUETRY PLATE — Urushi reveals itself. → Learn more about urushi lacquer
Care Instructions
- After washing, wipe dry immediately with a soft cloth.
- Do not leave wet; prolonged moisture may cause warping or cracking.
- Avoid prolonged direct sunlight and locations with extreme changes in temperature or humidity.
- Do not leave oily or strongly colored foods on the surface for extended periods.
- Not suitable for use in microwave ovens, dishwashers, or refrigerators.
- Once fully cured, urushi lacquer does not typically cause skin reactions — however, in rare cases, allergic responses may occur. If so, please consult a medical professional.
- Please note that each piece features its own unique grain and color — a natural characteristic of handcrafted wood.
Q&A — Care & Usage
Q1: What is the natural urushi lacquer finish?
A1: Natural urushi deepens in richness and sheen the more it is used. The lacquer film is exceptionally durable and, with proper care, will maintain its beauty for many years. Please note that once fully cured, the lacquer does not typically cause skin reactions — however, in rare cases, allergic responses may occur. If so, please consult a medical professional.
Q2: Can I wash it with water?
A2: Yes. Please wipe dry immediately after washing and avoid leaving it wet.
Q3: Is it dishwasher-safe?
A3: Hand-washing is recommended. Please do not use a dishwasher.
Q4: Can I use it in a microwave?
A4: No. As a wood product, it is not microwave-safe.
Q5: Is direct sunlight a problem for storage?
A5: Direct sunlight can cause warping, cracking, and fading. Please store away from direct sunlight.
Q6: Can surface scratches be repaired?
A6: Minor scratches to the lacquer film may be repairable. Deep scratches, cracks, or warping cannot be restored.
Q7: Can I serve warm food on it?
A7: It is designed for food at room temperature to hand-warm. Please avoid placing very hot items directly from a pot or grill onto the surface.
Q8: The grain or color looks different from the photo — is this normal?
A8: Yes. Please note that slight variations in grain and color are inherent to natural wood. Each piece is one of a kind.
— Shipping —
Domestic Shipping (Japan)
◉ For rates and details, please visit this page.
◉ Orders are dispatched on weekdays only. No weekend or holiday shipping.
International Shipping
◉ We ship worldwide to most destinations.
◉ Shipping rates vary by region and weight. For details, please visit this page.
◉ Any import duties or taxes are the responsibility of the recipient.
