Two Red Lacquer Mingei-style Bowls

Kado Isaburo Japanese

Not on view

The wooden core of these bowls was carved using the blade of a lathe, and the resulting striations are an integral part of the surface texture. Kado was one of Wajima’s (Ishikawa Prefercture) most inventive and modern lacquer artists. He experimented with the application of lacquer (urushi) with his fingers, leaving uneven surfaces. In some pieces, he allowed the grain of the wooden base to be visible through the layers of lacquer.

The vulnerable rim of the wooden base is reinforced by the application of narrow strips of fabric adhered with lacquer. Next, locally mined clay is mixed with lacquer to create a foundation for the subsequent lacquer layers. This compound permeates the wood, giving it strength. Then several coats of lacquer are brushed on to the piece. Finally, the bowl is polished with charcoal.

Two Red Lacquer Mingei-style Bowls, Kado Isaburo (Japanese, 1940–2005), Lacquered wood with red lacquer, Japan

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Two Red Lacquer Mingei-style Bowls, Kado Isaburo (Japanese, 1940–2005), Lacquered wood with red lacquer, Japan
Two Red Lacquer Mingei-style Bowls, Kado Isaburo (Japanese, 1940–2005), Lacquered wood with red lacquer, Japan
Two Red Lacquer Mingei-style Bowls, Kado Isaburo (Japanese, 1940–2005), Lacquered wood with red lacquer, Japan

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