1500 years history of Echizen Shikki

The tree which grows only in East or South Asia including Japan is called Urushi Tree (Toxicodendron Vernicifluum), and the vessels which are made with Japanese Urushi have high durability and high quality. Urushi products have been developed over many years. When Urushi lacquer is used the Urushi strengthens the wood and acts as an insulator for hot foods as well as protecting the wood from food making.

Echizen Shikki (lacquerware) has 1500 years of history in Fukui prefecture. A lot of Urushi was obtained so there was many great lacquerware craftsmen born in Echizen Fukui. And on the other hand, it is also famous for restaurant lacquerware by a factory in Japan.

In Echizen where it is famous for mass producing lacquerware, Mr. Nakano takes a different approach to his work, he is more of a lacquerware “artist” making beautiful matte texture items. 

Usually lacquerware was made with a polishing finish but Echizen Shikki’s characteristic has no polish, which directly shows the craftsmen's skill in each item.

Mr.Nakano’s items show beautiful finish from his training by his father who is Echizen Shikki craftsman. His items are also made of a thick layer so you can enjoy mat and kind of soft texture fitting in the hand.

How to properly care and use Urushi Lacquerware:

-Do not expose to direct sunlight for long periods of time

-You may use it for hot or oily meals.

-Hand wash using a soft sponge and dish soap

-Please dry well using a soft cloth.

-Never use in a microwave.

-Not to be used in oven.

With a little effort, you can use the vessel made with attention to detail for a long time.

Brand: Komon
Craftsman: Nakano
*Please note that Komon products vary, making each item unique. There may be some slight variations in size, finish, and texture from the photo presented here.