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 heart of Kyoto, Kuroda Shogen carries forward a centuries-old lineage of lacquer masters, each brushstroke a testament to devotion that few will match. He applies urushi, the natural tree lacquer, in dozens of whisper-thin layers, a process so painstaking that a single soup bowl can take an entire season to complete. The result is a depth of black that feels almost bottomless, a finish that has become the gold standard for discerning collectors worldwide. If you ever find yourself in Kyoto, a pilgrimage to his studio is not just recommended—it's essential for anyone who appreciates the art of patience and perfection.
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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