Vintage Japanese Urushi Lacquer Red Bowl – Gilt Maki-e – Chrysanthemums on Water (Kikusui) Motif

Features

• Origin: Japan, discovered in Kanagawa Prefecture
• Estimated period: Likely Shōwa period, 20th century
• Material: Wood lacquered with natural urushi 漆, glossy vermilion red finish
• Type: Japanese bowl with lid 蓋付き椀, also called futa-tsuki wan
• Exterior decoration: Kikusui 菊水 motif, combining chrysanthemum flowers and leaves kiku 菊 with stylized water currents ryūsui 流水
• Decorative technique: Gilded maki-e 蒔絵 (lacquer designs sprinkled with gold powder), with chrysanthemums in relief made with taka-maki-e 高蒔絵
• Interior decoration: Solid red bowl; underside of the lid adorned with a chrysanthemum and water currents in gilded maki-e
• Dimensions:
  • Diameter: ~ 13.3 cm
  • Height without lid: ~ 5.5 cm
  • Height with lid: ~ 9 cm
• Weight: ~ 167 g

Condition: Vintage — Excellent overall condition. The red lacquer retains a beautiful shine and the gilded decoration remains very crisp. Some very light traces of use and wear on the edges of the lid's rims.

Description

This superb Japanese bowl with a lid is a piece of traditional craftsmanship made of wood lacquered with urushi 漆, probably produced during the Shōwa period in the 20th century.

The surface features a deep vermilion red lacquer, glossy and luminous. This finish, called shu-nuri 朱塗, relies on the use of red-colored urushi. It contrasts with the gilded decorations and the borders highlighting the rim, foot, and lid.

The decoration features the traditional theme of kikusui 菊水, literally "chrysanthemum and water," with kiku 菊 flowers and leaves accompanied by stylized ryūsui 流水 currents. This ancient Japanese motif associates the chrysanthemum with water and symbolizes longevity. The large flowers are executed in taka-maki-e 高蒔絵, a form of maki-e 蒔絵 in which the motif is built in relief before receiving metallic powder. The foliage, veins, and water lines are treated more finely, creating a precise contrast between volumes and flat surfaces.

The underside of the lid features the kikusui motif, a gilded chrysanthemum and water lines. The interior of the red bowl remains simple.

🧽 Care instructions

• Hand wash in lukewarm water with a soft sponge
• Wipe immediately with a dry cloth
• Do not soak
• Do not expose to direct sunlight or a heat source
• Do not use in dishwasher or microwave
• Avoid very acidic or very greasy foods for long periods
• Handle the lid with care to preserve the lacquer and decoration

🦝 We love

This red urushi bowl is superb, with its kikusui motif, it doesn't skimp on maki-e! We adore the chrysanthemums in taka-maki-e, which make the piece truly chic!

Also discover our "Tableware" collection, where other lacquers, as well as porcelains and ceramics, perpetuate the elegance and delicacy of Japanese craftsmanship.