Kuroda Shogen
Head of Kyoto's Kuroda lacquer studio, producing hand-applied urushi wares built from dozens of layered coats of natural tree lacquer.
Veronica's Take
In the ancient city of Kyoto, Kuroda Shogen upholds a centuries-old tradition of urushi lacquerware, where his pieces reflect an unparalleled commitment to patience and precision. He meticulously brushes on dozens of whisper-thin layers of tree sap by hand, a process so exacting that crafting a single soup bowl can consume an entire season. The result is a profound, light-swallowing black that epitomizes the Kuroda studio's relentless pursuit of perfection, a craft that truly demands a lifetime to master.
He brushes on tree sap one whisper-thin coat at a time, dozens deep, so a single soup bowl can take a season to reach its bottomless black shine.
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The people behind Kuroda Shogen
Kuroda Shogen
profileLacquerware
Head of Kyoto's Kuroda lacquer studio, producing hand-applied urushi wares built from dozens of layered coats of natural tree lacquer.
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