Ouchi Lacquer Ware

During the Muromachi period (1392-1573), Ouchi, who was a prominent figure in the area corresponding to present-day Yamaguchi Prefecture, promoted trade with Korea and Ming dynasty China. He encouraged the making of this particular lacquer ware for export and, although this trade finally died out, the skills which had been learned were carried over into the Edo period (1600-1868), and are still with us today.

Yamaguchi on the western end of Honshu, was often referred to as a "Kyoto in the West", perhaps referring to its air of refinement. Retaining something of that air, Ouchi lacquer ware is first undercoated with a dull vermilion, onto which motifs of autumn grasses are applied in a yellowish green lacquer. Cloud forms are then followed by the addition of a unique devise, the Ouchi family crest in gold leaf. Large trays, plates, coasters and figures are the mainstays of production and the management of 12 firms employing 45 staff.