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Odawara is one of the first places to develop woodcraft in Japan. Tools were turned into blocks of wood to create round objects like bowls. Odawara lacquer was born when craftsmen started applying layers of transparent lacquer to their objects. Zelkova wood known for its robustness is mostly used to make day-to-day tableware that will last for long. Red color pigments are sometimes added to the lacquer to emphasize the beauty of the wood's natural grain. The simple design and longevity of Odawara lacquer explain its popularity since hundreds of years. |
Ishikawa Lacquer was established in 1887 after the craftsman's family abandoned the production of weapons, which were not required in peaceful times anymore. The business is still in the hands of the same family and well known for the high quality of its products. Their small workshop and showroom are green island of piece in the center of Odawara city. |
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