Kiso Lacquerware Bowls

Four individual woodturned Kiso lacquerware bowls with the natural grain visible on the outside and a red lacquer interior.

Two bowls (KO-1 and KO-2) are slightly smaller with a hemp motif carved on the side and two bowls (KO-3 and KO-4) are heavier and slightly larger. They are ideal to use as rice bowls, soup bowls, or for salads. 

• Material: wood and lacquer
• Colour: natural wood grain with red lacquer interior
• Number: four bowls, individually numbered
• Dimensions: 12cm outer diameter (bowl at its widest)

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Yamaichi Ogura Wheel Crafts Co., Ltd. is named after both the woodworker's village of Yamaichi, located at the southernmost tip of the deep mountain valley of Kiso in Nagano prefecture, and the Ogura family name. The family traces its history back more than 1,100 years to the descendants of Minister Ogura Sanehide and Minister of Finance Korenaka, who were attendants to Prince Shiitaka, the first son of Emperor Montoku, the 55th emperor of Japan.

The company's shop in the Urushibata area was established in 1970, and in 1980 became a nationally designated traditional craft store. The company makes wooden vessels in the traditional Kiso woodturning style and manufactures tea cabinets, tea trays and different types of wooden bowls from a variety of woods, including chestnut, zelkova, cork and oak.

In the company's own words: "Making use of the traditional charm of Japanese wood, we do meticulous work under the motto of 'never cutting corners' to create creative and original products suited to modern life, from small bowls to large furniture."

The four wooden bowls were made by Kazuichi Ogura, past president of Yamaichi Ogura, a certified traditional craftsman who had over 70 years of experience. The bowls showcase his approach of preserving the beauty of the wood grain, while applying a protective layer of red lacquer to the interior.

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CARE INSTRUCTIONS

Most commercial restaurant lacquerware is made from resin, but traditional lacquerware is made of wood and needs special care. If cared for well, lacquerware can last for decades.

• Hand Wash Only: Avoid using a dishwasher or soaking the lacquerware in water for extended periods. Instead, gently hand wash it with a soft sponge or cloth using mild soap and lukewarm water.
• Avoid Abrasive Materials: Do not use abrasive scrubbers or harsh cleaning agents, as they can damage the lacquer surface.
• Dry Immediately: After washing, dry the lacquerware immediately with a soft cloth to prevent water spots and maintain the shine.
• Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Do not expose the lacquerware to direct sunlight, extreme heat, or sudden temperature changes, as this can cause the lacquer to crack or warp.
• Handle with Care: Avoid using metal utensils or sharp objects that can scratch the surface. Use wooden or plastic utensils instead.
• Store Properly: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture to prevent fading and warping.