{"title":"Oriental Lacquer: History, Techniques \u0026 Collecting Guide","description":"\u003ch1\u003eOriental Lacquer: From the Silk Road to European Interiors\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFew materials have captivated collectors and artisans as much as \u003cstrong\u003eOriental lacquer\u003c\/strong\u003e. With its deep, lustrous surfaces, elaborate decoration, and extraordinary durability, lacquerwork was one of the most sought-after luxury goods to arrive in Europe from Asia between the 16th and 18th centuries. At \u003cstrong\u003eNwtiques\u003c\/strong\u003e, we celebrate this remarkable art form through the lacquered objects, screens, and furniture that embody centuries of cross-cultural exchange.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eOrigins of Lacquer in Asia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe use of natural lacquer, derived from the sap of the \u003cem\u003eToxicodendron vernicifluum\u003c\/em\u003e tree, has an ancient history in \u003cstrong\u003eChina, Japan, and Southeast Asia\u003c\/strong\u003e. Artisans built up multiple layers of lacquer, often in black, red, or gold, to create surfaces that could be carved, inlaid, or painted with intricate decoration. Themes ranged from landscapes and pavilions to birds, dragons, and mythological figures, often imbued with symbolism.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLarge \u003cstrong\u003efolding screens\u003c\/strong\u003e, ornate \u003cstrong\u003eboxes\u003c\/strong\u003e, and decorative objects showcased technical virtuosity and were prized both domestically and abroad. By the 16th century, lacquerware had become one of the most important exports of Asian craftsmanship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTrade and the Journey to Europe\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOriental lacquer reached Europe by two primary routes:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Silk Road\u003c\/strong\u003e: Overland caravans carried lacquer objects westward, though fragile pieces rarely survived the long journeys.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSea Voyages\u003c\/strong\u003e: More significant was the maritime trade of the \u003cstrong\u003ePortuguese, Dutch, and later the English East India Company\u003c\/strong\u003e, which brought chests, cabinets, and screens directly from Asia to European ports.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy the 17th century, lacquer was a fixture of the most fashionable interiors in Paris, London, and Amsterdam. Possessing lacquer signalled worldliness, wealth, and refined taste.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLacquer in European Interiors\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Europe, large lacquered screens were often dismantled and reused in the creation of \u003cstrong\u003ecabinets, commodes, and tables\u003c\/strong\u003e. This transformation was orchestrated by the \u003cstrong\u003emarchands-merciers\u003c\/strong\u003e of Paris—dealers who specialised in importing luxury goods and adapting them for aristocratic clients. They commissioned leading cabinetmakers such as \u003cstrong\u003eBVRB (Bernard II van Risenburgh)\u003c\/strong\u003e to mount Asian lacquer panels into French rococo and later neoclassical furniture, often framed with gilt-bronze mounts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis practice not only preserved the beauty of Asian lacquer but also integrated it seamlessly into the vocabulary of European decorative arts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThemes and Styles\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChinese Lacquer\u003c\/strong\u003e: Often black or red, with gilded decoration showing landscapes, pagodas, figures, and auspicious animals such as cranes or phoenixes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJapanese Lacquer (Urushi)\u003c\/strong\u003e: Highly refined, frequently with maki-e (sprinkled gold or silver powders), sometimes incorporating mother-of-pearl inlays.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCoromandel Screens\u003c\/strong\u003e: Large folding screens carved into thick layers of black lacquer, then filled with coloured pigments to depict lively courtly or landscape scenes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese motifs not only decorated rooms but also shaped Western perceptions of Asia as exotic, refined, and mysterious.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLegacy and Collecting Today\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToday, Oriental lacquer remains highly prized by collectors. Whether in the form of a \u003cstrong\u003eJapanese export cabinet\u003c\/strong\u003e, a \u003cstrong\u003eChinese coromandel screen\u003c\/strong\u003e, or a \u003cstrong\u003eFrench commode inlaid with Asian panels\u003c\/strong\u003e, each piece represents a remarkable journey across cultures and centuries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt \u003cstrong\u003eNwtiques\u003c\/strong\u003e, our selection of lacquer objects and furniture reflects this dialogue between East and West—works of art that embody both the technical brilliance of Asian craftsmanship and the ingenuity of European adaptation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-start=\"130\" data-end=\"176\"\u003eJapanning: Europe’s Answer to High Demand\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"177\" data-end=\"742\"\u003eThe scarcity of authentic Asian lacquer — coupled with soaring demand among European elites — soon led to the invention of \u003cstrong data-start=\"300\" data-end=\"313\"\u003ejapanning\u003c\/strong\u003e, a local substitute developed in England, France, and the Netherlands during the 17th century. Using varnishes, pigments, and gilding, European craftsmen imitated the glossy finish and exotic motifs of imported lacquer. Though technically different, japanned furniture and decorative objects became highly fashionable in their own right, reflecting Europe’s fascination with the East while answering the limitations of supply.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDiscover Oriental Lacquer with Nwtiques\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExplore our collection of \u003cstrong\u003eOriental lacquer furniture and decorative objects\u003c\/strong\u003e, and bring home pieces that once crossed oceans to inspire the courts of Europe. These objects are not just antiques; they are \u003cstrong\u003etestaments to global exchange, enduring beauty, and timeless artistry\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"maison-jansen-black-lacquer-and-brass-low-table","title":"Maison Jansen Black Lacquer and Brass Low Table","description":"\u003cp\u003eMaison Jansen Black Lacquer and Brass Low Table\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA superb mid-century low table or coffee table, attributed to Maison Jansen, this piece exudes the elegance and cosmopolitan flair typical of Parisian style in the 1960s. Combining European sophistication with Asian artistry, it evokes the allure of chinoiserie that was highly coveted during the period. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrigin: France\u003cbr\u003eDate: Circa 1960\u003cbr\u003eMaterial: Black lacquer and brass\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDimensions: Height: 44 cm (17 ins), Width: 93 cm (36.5 ins), Depth: 48 cm (19 ins)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCondition: Excellent patina, with light signs of use consistent with age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis mid-century Maison Jansen low table stands as a testament to the firm’s stature as one of the leading French interior design houses of the twentieth century. The bamboo-inspired cast brass frame reflects the enduring fascination with Eastern motifs, while the finely lacquered top is adorned with traditional Chinese scenes—reminiscent of the luxury décor pieces commissioned for both European aristocracy and celebrated institutions. Comparisons may be drawn to similar examples held in notable private collections, as well as those seen in museum settings focusing on the evolution of 20th-century decorative arts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNotable Features:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCast brass frame with striking bamboo motifs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLustrous black lacquer top, meticulously hand-decorated with scenes in a lozenge panel\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOrnamental border of scrolling vines and rich red peony blossoms\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDelicately balanced proportions suitable for both display and use\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe table’s craftsmanship is evidenced in the crisp brass detailing and the beautifully applied lacquer, harmoniously merging influences from East and West. The lozenge-shaped design, bordered with flowing vines, conjures the mannered luxury and grace of chinoiserie while maintaining the refined symmetry celebrated in mid-century French design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a Maison Jansen piece, its rarity and provenance make it especially desirable to collectors of 20th-century decorative arts. Its generous top and graceful low form ensure practicality as a coffee table or as a focal point within a curated interior. This Maison Jansen black lacquer and brass low table would be an exceptional addition to any setting seeking a statement of style and heritage.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Collection EE40","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51153197695313,"sku":"61419","price":5900.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0935\/5873\/5185\/files\/0W2A8622-copy-scaled-1-1.webp?v=1747989316"},{"product_id":"edo-japanese-black-lacquer-and-gilt-trunk","title":"Edo Japanese Black Lacquer and Gilt Trunk","description":"\u003cp\u003eEdo Japanese Black Lacquer and Gilt Trunk\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA striking example of 17th-century Japanese craftsmanship, this remarkable storage chest embodies the refined elegance for which the Edo period is celebrated. Finished in lustrous black lacquer offset with gilt detailing, the trunk embodies the classic sophistication of traditional Japanese cabinet furniture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrigin: Japan\u003cbr\u003eDate: 17th century\u003cbr\u003eMaterial: Black lacquer, gilt, engraved brass mounts\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDimensions: Height: 74 cm (29.2 in); Width: 152 cm (60 in); Depth: 66 cm (26 in)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCondition: Excellent original patina; minor age-related wear commensurate with period\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuring the Edo period, luxurious lacquerware became a symbol of status among Japanese nobility, and examples such as this large lacquer and gilt trunk are highly prized by enthusiasts and collectors alike. Comparable pieces are preserved in collections such as the Victoria and Albert Museum, attesting to their enduring appeal and cultural significance. The trunk’s harmonious proportions and ornate brass mounts suggest influence from both domestic design traditions and subtle nods to European export taste, as seen in select 17th-century Japanese storage chests.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNotable Features:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSuperbly polished black lacquer surface with gleaming gold gilt details highlights the refined craftsmanship typical of Edo artisans.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDomed, hinged lid and protective engraved brass mounts not only provide elegance but also enhance durability.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe sizeable scale and rare polychrome flame wallpaper interior are distinctive and seldom encountered in similar storage chests.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTwo robust drop handles at either end for ease of movement—a practical touch for such a substantial piece of cabinet furniture.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith its dramatic Rococo-esque curves and finely worked surfaces, this Japanese lacquer trunk makes a strong design statement, seamlessly blending aesthetic appeal with functionality. Its rarity, distinguished provenance, and the always-desirable combination of scale and craftsmanship grant it exceptional collecting value. Ideal as the centrepiece for a curated collection, or as a decorative yet functional storage solution in an elegant interior, this Edo Japanese black lacquer and gilt trunk is a testament to both its era and the enduring allure of Japanese artistry.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Collection EE40","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51162191954257,"sku":"56748","price":25000.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0935\/5873\/5185\/files\/0W2A3820.webp?v=1748097218"},{"product_id":"a-collection-of-burmese-gilt-lacquer-trays-and-objects","title":"A Collection of Burmese Gilt Lacquer Trays and Objects","description":"\u003cp\u003eA group of Burmese lacquer gilt objects including three trays, one oval 43 x 38cm and two round, the largest 40.5cm diameter, accompanied by a gilt circular box containing two coasters with gold leaf animals depicted on the bases and a larger black lacquer bowl. 12.5 x 12.5cm also a larger bowl and cover with a finial that measures 21 x 21cm including the finial.\u003cbr\u003eBurma, Indonesia, circa 1920\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e43 cms (17 ins)\u003cbr\u003e38 cms (15 ins)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Collection EE20","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51279822160209,"sku":"20655","price":2950.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0935\/5873\/5185\/files\/background-editor_output_1f28480e-6ec0-428f-a29d-7dcc7553db50.png?v=1750203501"},{"product_id":"japanese-black-lacquer-chest","title":"Japanese Lacquered Kimono Chest (Ishō-bako)","description":"\u003cp\u003eA handsome Japanese lacquered kimono chest of rectangular form, finished in deep black lacquer and decorated throughout with gilt circular mon devices inspired by traditional Japanese family crests. The chest is mounted with engraved brass corner mounts, lock escutcheons and carrying handles, all displaying a rich aged patina that contrasts beautifully with the dark lacquered ground.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eJapan, Meiji Period (1868–1912)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWidth: 60 cm\u003cbr\u003eDepth: 40 cm\u003cbr\u003eHeight: 37.5 cm\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe design is notably restrained for the period, relying on bold geometric ornament and elegant proportions rather than the more elaborate landscapes and foliate decoration often encountered on export lacquerware. The circular motifs repeated across all sides create a strong architectural rhythm, while the substantial brass handle and decorative lockplate provide a focal point to the front.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOriginally intended for the storage and transport of kimono and personal effects, the chest remains highly decorative and practical, suitable as a coffee table, blanket chest or storage piece.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeiji period, late 19th century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWear consistent with age and use, including minor losses and rubbing to the lacquer surface, oxidation to brass fittings, and \u003cstrong\u003eone replaced corner protector\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Collection EE40","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53669317738833,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0935\/5873\/5185\/files\/kimono-lacquer-chest-3.png?v=1781362326"},{"product_id":"red-lacquer-chest","title":"Japanese Red Lacquered Sake Vessel","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn unusual Japanese ceremonial sake vessel of coopered construction, finished in vibrant vermilion-red lacquer and bound with woven bamboo hoops. Raised on a distinctive tripod base and retaining its fitted lid, the vessel is decorated with a family crest (\u003cem\u003ekamon\u003c\/em\u003e) to the top, suggesting its use in a formal or celebratory setting.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eJapan, Meiji Period (1868–1912)\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe bold sculptural form reflects the importance of sake in Japanese ceremonial and communal life. Vessels of this type were used during festivals, weddings, banquets and religious observances, where sake was served as part of ritual and hospitality traditions. The vivid red lacquer, associated with good fortune and protection, is complemented by the contrasting bamboo bindings, creating an object of considerable visual impact.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoth functional and symbolic, the vessel embodies the craftsmanship and aesthetic restraint of traditional Japanese decorative arts. Today it stands as a striking decorative piece, equally suited to a collection of Asian works of art or a thoughtfully curated interior.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWear, minor losses and surface marks consistent with age and use. Bamboo bindings intact. Expected age-related rubbing and imperfections to the lacquered surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHeight: 55 cm\u003cbr\u003eLength: 58 cm\u003cbr\u003eWidth: 43 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJapan, Meiji period, late 19th century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Collection EE40","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53669368168785,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0935\/5873\/5185\/files\/red-lacquer-sake-vessel-3.png?v=1781363578"},{"product_id":"japanese-lacquer-tray","title":"Japanese Lacquer Tray","description":"\u003cp\u003eA finely executed square Japanese lacquer tray of generous proportions, with rounded corners and a broad black lacquer rim enclosing a striking mottled red and black surface. The interior is decorated in a richly textured \u003cem\u003enashiji\u003c\/em\u003e-like finish, creating an intricate organic pattern reminiscent of stone, tortoiseshell or flowing lacquer marbling. The restrained black border provides a dramatic contrast to the vibrant vermilion ground, highlighting the depth and lustre of the lacquerwork.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eJapan, dated 15 November 1984\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe reverse is finished in black lacquer and bears a gilt dedication inscription reading:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"Congratulations on your 77th birthday (Kiju).\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePresented to a respected recipient (\u003cem\u003eSensei\u003c\/em\u003e)\u003cbr\u003e15 November 1984\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Japanese tradition, \u003cstrong\u003eKiju (喜寿)\u003c\/strong\u003e marks the seventy-seventh birthday and is one of the most important longevity celebrations, making this tray a commemorative presentation piece created to honour the recipient on this significant occasion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn elegant example of late twentieth-century Japanese lacquer craftsmanship, combining traditional decorative techniques with a refined, minimalist aesthetic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e76.5 × 76.5 × 2.3 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGood overall condition with light surface wear and minor marks consistent with age and use. The commemorative inscription remains clearly legible on the reverse.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Collection EE40","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53669429412177,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0935\/5873\/5185\/files\/0W2A6840.jpg?v=1781524799"},{"product_id":"lacquer-tray-ii","title":"Japanese Lacquer Tray II","description":"\u003cp data-end=\"545\" data-start=\"54\"\u003eA large square Japanese lacquer tray of elegant form, with softly rounded corners and a deep raised rim finished in black lacquer. The interior is decorated in a striking mottled red and black lacquer finish, creating a dense organic pattern that recalls flowing lava, tortoiseshell or traditional \u003cem data-end=\"361\" data-start=\"352\"\u003enashiji\u003c\/em\u003e-inspired surfaces. The rich vermilion ground is enlivened by countless irregular black tracings, producing a dramatic sense of depth and movement beneath the polished lacquer surface.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"52\" data-start=\"0\"\u003eJapan, late 20th century\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"912\" data-start=\"547\"\u003eThe reverse is finished in plain black lacquered canvas, emphasising the tray's restrained aesthetic and allowing the richly decorated interior to take centre stage. The substantial size and robust construction suggest it was intended for formal presentation or ceremonial serving, while its bold graphic appearance lends itself equally well as a decorative tabletop object.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1059\" data-start=\"914\"\u003eAn impressive example of modern Japanese lacquer craftsmanship, combining traditional techniques with a distinctly contemporary visual character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1099\" data-start=\"1061\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1076\" data-start=\"1061\"\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-end=\"1079\" data-start=\"1076\"\u003e75.8 × 75.8 × 3.5 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-is-only-node=\"\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-end=\"1293\" data-start=\"1101\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1115\" data-start=\"1101\"\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-end=\"1118\" data-start=\"1115\"\u003eGood overall condition with light surface wear, scratches and minor marks to the reverse consistent with age and use. The lacquered interior remains vibrant and displays well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Collection EE40","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53669443731793,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0935\/5873\/5185\/files\/0W2A6847.jpg?v=1781525616"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0935\/5873\/5185\/collections\/Japanese-mother-of-pearl-lacquer-box1-scaled-1.jpg?v=1755236049","url":"https:\/\/nwtiques.com\/collections\/lacquer.oembed","provider":"Nicholas Wells Antiques","version":"1.0","type":"link"}