Urushi (Japanese lacquer)

Urushi is a traditional Japanese lacquer made from the sap of the urushi tree, primarily lacquered onto objects like furniture, jewelry, and artwork. This natural resin is harvested, processed, and applied in multiple thin layers, each hardening through a chemical reaction called polymerization. The resulting finish is extremely durable, resistant to moisture, heat, and corrosion, and has a glossy, elegant appearance. Urushi work often involves intricate craftsmanship and sometimes includes colored pigments or gold leaf for decorative effects. Its cultural significance and resilience have made it a treasured material in Japanese art and craftsmanship for centuries.