About lacquer tree
Natural lacquer (other commercial name is Varnish resin, Urushi, Japan Sumac, Japan Wax) is one of humankind’s oldest materials. In the Stone Age, over 9,000 years ago, people discovered the adhesive and protective properties of the sap of the lacquer tree and used it in the making of spears and arrows, and to strengthen and protect utensils and other objects. It is still used today by people in East Asia to protect and decorate plates, bowls and ornaments.




In the past, in Vietnam, China, Korea, Tibet, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia and Laos natural lacquer was used extensively in the decorating temples, creating temple art, and making Buddhist images. Today, in many parts of East Asia, natural lacquer is still used in the production of tableware and utensils for everyday use as well as in creating urushi artwork. It is also used in the restoration of lacquerware and temple interiors.




