Two Red Lacquer Mingei-style Bowls

1989

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.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

角偉三郎　朱塗椀
Title: Two Red Lacquer Mingei-style Bowls
Artist: Kado Isaburo (Japanese, 1940–2005)
Period: Shōwa period (1926–89)
Date: 1989
Culture: Japan
Medium: Lacquered wood with red lacquer
Dimensions: a) H. 4 1//4 in. (10.8 cm); Diam. of rim 5 1/2 in. (14 cm); Diam. of foot 3 1/8 in. (7.9 cm)
b) H. 3 1/8 in. (7.9 cm); Diam. of rim 4 3/4 in. (12.1 cm); Diam. of foot 2 3/8 in. (6 cm)
Classification: Lacquer
Credit Line: Gift of Halsey and Alice North, 2017
Object Number: 2017.166.3a, b
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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