Unique Kintsugi Fruit bowl Apple shape, Arita ware

Discover the Japanese Art of Kintsugi

Kintsugi, derived from the Japanese words "kin" (gold) and "tsugi" (to mend), is the ancient art of restoring broken pottery with natural Urushi lacquer and enhancing it with powdered metals such as pure gold. While kintsugi is a prominent technique, it is only one of the many techniques of urushi lacquer art in Japan. Rooted in the philosophy of wabi-sabi, kintsugi celebrates imperfection, resilience, and renewal, turning cracks into unique and beautiful features that honor the history of each piece.

🌳 Why Urushi Lacquer?

Urushi lacquer is a natural, sustainable material derived from the sap of the lacquer tree. It has been used for centuries in kintsugi due to its remarkable properties:

• Strong Adhesion: Ensures durable restoration.
• Water Resistance: Protects against leaks.
• Chemical Resistance: Resists acids, alkalis, salts, and alcohols.
• Thermal Insulation: Shields against heat.
• Antiseptic Properties: Naturally resists bacteria and fungi.
• Strong Film Formation: As the urushi lacquer dries, it forms a strong film that makes the restored piece resilient and durable.

These versatile properties make urushi lacquer perfect for kintsugi, creating strong, beautiful and durable restorations that honor the history of the original piece and become cherished heirlooms. In addition, urushi lacquer is a sustainable material that is naturally sourced and promotes eco-friendly craftsmanship that respects both tradition and the environment.

🖌️ The Kintsugi Process (4-5 Months)

1. Application: We carefully restore cracks, chips, or broken pieces with urushi lacquer, sometimes mixing with other natural materials for extra strength, depending on the damage.
2. Layering: Restored areas are coated with several layers of urushi lacquer, dried, and polished several times to create a strong, smooth base.
3. Decoration: Finally, we decorate the piece with metal powder. While pure gold is commonly used, we also use pure silver ("Gintsugi") and colored urushi lacquer ("Iro-urushitsugi") to match the original design.

👉 Kintsugi isn't just about gold!

Finishing with pure silver (called "Gintsugi") and colored urushi lacquer (called "Iro-urushitsugi") are equally authentic forms of this art. Regardless of the type of finish, kintsugi honors imperfection, preserves history, and transforms each piece into a unique treasure.
Learn more about the fascinating techniques of Kintsugi!

☑️ Kintsugi Finish Type for This Piece:

🎨 Other Restoration or Decorative Techniques for This Piece

• Raden Technique: This method uses colorful mother-of-pearl shells, like green turbo or abalone, that are cut into decorative shapes and applied to the surface of a lacquered object. The result is a beautiful, sparkling finish that looks like precious jewelry.
• Nashiji Technique: In this technique, Nashiji powder, like gold or silver, is sprinkled onto the surface of the lacquered object. A clear lacquer is then applied, and the surface is polished to the extent that the powder is not exposed. The result is a stunning, glittering finish that looks like stars shining through the transparent urushi lacquer. The name Nashiji means "pear skin" in Japanese because the finish resembles the surface of a pear.

🌟 Why Choose This Kintsugi Piece?

• Authentic Restoration: Expert Japanese lacquer artisans meticulously restored the Arita ware bowl with natural urushi lacquer, preserving centuries-old techniques
• Durable and Beautiful: Each fragment is delicately joined and strengthened for durability, adorned with pure silver powder, creating a mesmerizing contrast.
• Intricate Techniques:: Enhanced with intricate Raden and Nashiji techniques, making it a truly exceptional and stunning piece.
• Historical Significance: Originating in Arita in the 17th century, Arita ware has greatly influenced Japanese porcelain and European ceramics.
• Resilience and Renewal: Though damaged in transit, this bowl was reborn through kintsugi, celebrating the beauty of imperfection and nature's resilience.
• Eco-Friendly Choice: Supports sustainable practices by restoring rather than discarding pottery.
• Wabi-Sabi Philosophy: Celebrates the beauty of imperfection and resilience, honoring each piece's history.

*Please note that this plate will be shipped in a regular paper box, not a paulownia box. Thank you.