Craft Techniques
What Is Raden? A Complete Guide to Japan's Mother-of-Pearl Inlay Art
Raden (螺鈿) is one of Japan's most dazzling lacquerware techniques, embedding iridescent shell fragments into...
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Explore in-depth articles on Japanese traditional crafts including raden mother-of-pearl inlay, urushi lacquerware, artisan profiles, regional craft traditions, and collecting guides.
History & Culture
A Thousand Years of Urushi: The History of Japanese Lacquerware
From prehistoric Japan to the imperial courts and modern studios, urushi lacquerware has shaped Japanese art and...
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Artisans & Workshops
Inside Wajima: The Artisans Keeping Japan's Most Celebrated Lacquer Tradition Alive
On the Noto Peninsula, the small city of Wajima is home to Japan's most rigorous lacquerware tradition. Meet the...
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Collecting & Caring
How to Identify Authentic Japanese Lacquerware: A Collector's Guide
With so many imitations on the market, knowing how to spot genuine urushi lacquerware is essential for any collector....
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Travel & Regions
Kyoto for Craft Lovers: Where to Discover Lacquerware, Raden, and Living Tradition
Kyoto is Japan's craft heartland. This regional guide points you to the museums, workshops, and districts where...
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Collecting & Caring
Caring for Urushi Lacquerware: How to Preserve and Protect Your Collection
Proper care can keep urushi lacquerware beautiful for generations. Learn the essential dos and don'ts for cleaning,...
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