This is an urushi (Japanese lacquer) finished using a traditional technique called makiji.
Instead of mixing jinoko (powdered burnt clay) with lacquer, the powder is sprinkled onto the lacquered surface, allowing it to adhere. This method creates a durable, scratch-resistant finish with a smooth yet subdued appearance. The rough grain of the chestnut wood remains faintly visible, adding to its rustic charm.
The black soup bowl is made using only raw urushi lacquer, with no pigment. The maroon-looking soup bowl uses vermilion pigment, which combines with the black parts to give it the appearance of deep burgundy. Depending on the light, it can also look reddish brown. The yellow-green soup bowl uses yellow pigment, which combines with the black parts to give it the appearance of yellow-green. It has a color similar to matcha tea.
It is shaped like a soup bowl, but can also be used as a rice bowl.
Click here for variations in wood type and size with the same finishing technique.
