Stillness in lacquer. The refinement of a rectangle.
Natural urushi from Tsutsumi Asagichi Urushi-ten, in a 300 × 420 mm plate.
A 300 × 420 mm (approx. 11¾" × 16½") rectangular plate finished with natural urushi lacquer from Tsutsumi Asagichi Urushi-ten, Kyoto. The radial ripple figure sinks into the lacquer-black depth and surfaces softly as light finds it. From an everyday dinner table to formal entertaining — a quiet authority.
SPEC
[Size] Rectangle: 300 mm × 420 mm × H 12 mm (approx. 11¾" × 16½" × ½")
[Wood species] White Sycamore
The radial spread of the ripple figure sinks into the lacquer's depth and surfaces softly under angled light.
[Finish] Natural urushi lacquer (wiped lacquer / fuki-urushi)
MADE IN JAPAN
About the Lacquer
This PLATE is a collaboration with Tsutsumi Asagichi Urushi-ten, Kyoto — a long-established lacquer merchant and craftsman with a reputation for the quality of their carefully selected natural urushi and the precision of their application.
Natural urushi has been used in Japan for over 10,000 years. Resistant to acids, alkalis, and heat, the lacquer film deepens in richness and sheen with every use. The ripple figure of White Sycamore veneer and the depth of urushi combine to create a presence entirely their own. → Learn more about urushi lacquer
The Rays Pattern
Thin-sliced wood veneer is cut into triangles and arranged radially from the center — a technique known as Rays (光線貼り). The radial grain, submerged in the lacquer's depth, rises to meet light as it shifts across the surface. That quiet dynamism is what lives in this rectangular form.
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.
