Production and Refining of Domestically Sourced Lacquer
The sap from the lacquer tree (Toxicodendron vernicifluum) is tapped
by making incisions in the trunk. Pallet knives are used to harvest the sap (raw lacquer)
that is exuded as part of the tree’s self-healing process.
Japanese Urushi Tapping
Preservation Society
Designated in 1996
Ninohe City Lacquer Industry Division,
Ninohe City Hall Joboji Branch, 37-4
Shimomaeta, Joboji-machi, Ninohe-shi,
Iwate Prefecture 028-6892
Urushi-kaki or lacquer tapping is one of the skills associated with the crafting of lacquerware. Lacquer sap is tapped by making incisions in the trunk of a mature lacquer tree. The Japanese Urushi Tapping Preservation Society is located in Iwate prefecture, the home of Jōbōji-urushi, the lacquer which is tapped by craftsmen based in the Jōbōji-machi area. Jōbōji-urushi accounts for about 80% of Japan’s domestically produced lacquer. Its production has been carefully maintained because the robust adhesive properties and high quality of this lacquer have made it indispensable for the conservation of the nation’s cultural properties.
