Kikkou-nuri

Akebono-nuri

Koma-nuri

Metallic Nashiji

Kikkou-nuri

The Kikkou-nuri technique has its name originated from the word 亀甲 (Kikkou) which means "turtle shell". In this technique, the surface of the object is carved and then coated with multiple Urushi layers in a way that the final artwork will resemble a turtle shell.

Combining with Akatame-nuri, the work results in a surprisingly subtle transition. We didn't expect that these two techniques will complement each other so well and create such an uncommon yet appealing finish.

Akebono-nuri

Akebono-nuri (曙塗り) is an Urushi technique that creates a duo-toned finish with a combination of Red and Black Urushi. Being considered as one of the most difficult techniques, Akebono-nuri involves a complicated process of Urushi coating.

On top of Red Urushi undercoat, Black Urushi is applied and polished until the Red Urushi is revealed. As this process is repeated, the underlying Red Urushi will become glossier and a beautifully gradient design will be achieved.

koma-nuri

Koma-nuri (独楽塗り) is an Urushi technique where a pattern is created by painting concentrically with multiple color Urushi such as Black, Red, and Yellow. In Japanese, the word 独楽 (Koma) refers to a spinning top toy, and the name 独楽塗り (Koma-nuri) originates from that.

Creating such smoothly rounding patterns with Urushi requires a lot of skills as well as attention. Sometimes, if the painting doesn't turn smoothly, there is no choice but the work has to be done over again. Artwork that is made with this technique is said to be lucky charms for a prosperous business and an abundant life.

METALLIC NASHIJI

Nashiji 梨子地 or pear-skin ground refers to a Japanese maki-e technique that creates artworks with a texture resembling pear fruit skin.

Aizu Metalic Nashiji is a Nashiji technique that works with metallic gold powder to create a rich grained surface. With a top transparent coat, the Metallic Nashiji finish is a magnificent translucent golden decoration that can catch lots of attention.