Pine soot and lacquer: a depth of black.
Within the quiet black, the grain of the wood lives on.
Sumi-urushi — pine soot combined with natural urushi lacquer — is not simply black. Under light, the radial grain rises faintly through the lacquer-black surface, visible only for a moment before retreating. That transient beauty is the soul of this plate.
SPEC
[Size] Round L: Φ360 mm × H 12 mm (approx. 14⅛" × ½")
[Wood species] White Sycamore
A wood renowned for its ripple figure. The radial ripple figure sinks into the sumi-urushi lacquer-black and surfaces subtly when light falls across it at an angle.
[Finish] Sumi-urushi — pine soot × natural urushi lacquer
MADE IN JAPAN
What is Sumi-urushi?
Sumi-urushi (墨漆) is a finish that combines pine soot with natural urushi lacquer. The pine soot lends a depth of black that differs from ordinary pigment — layered with the luster of urushi, the result is a heavy, quiet texture unlike any other.
In that lacquer-black, the radial ripple figure appears and disappears with the light. Still, yet never static — that is the quiet individuality of this plate.
Like all urushi finishes, sumi-urushi deepens in richness and sheen with everyday use. → 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 deep lacquer-black of sumi-urushi, surfaces faintly when light falls across it. That fleeting beauty is at the heart of this plate.
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 sumi-urushi (pine-soot lacquer) finish?
A1: Sumi-urushi combines pine soot with natural urushi lacquer. It is not simply black — it is a deep, layered lacquer-black in which the radial grain faintly emerges under light. The lacquer deepens with use. 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 very high temperatures.
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.
