Lacquers

Since the Neolithic period, the Chinese recognized the properties of the resin extracted from the lacquer tree, which allows wood to be waterproofed while giving it a polished appearance. Initially, lacquer was used to protect coffins and ritual objects placed in graves, but it quickly evolved into a decorative element in its own right.

Artisans discovered various lacquer techniques that enabled them to decorate furniture and everyday items, including tableware, boxes, and screens.

While the art of lacquering originated in China, it gradually spread to Southeast Asian countries and Japan, where it became a distinct art form and a symbol of the Far East.

Japanese artists mastered and developed this art by layering different coats of lacquer to sculpt them, incorporating pieces of mother-of-pearl or ivory, or sprinkling them with precious metal dust or pigment powder.

They also achieved various colors of lacquer by mixing the resin with pigments such as vermilion, iron sulfate, or arsenic sulfide, resulting in red, black, or green lacquers. Originally, lacquer was a grayish-white that darkened to brown as it dried.

Depending on the number of layers applied, the creation of a lacquer object can take several months, as each layer must be allowed to dry perfectly in open air and at high humidity before being covered. Objects referred to as "lacquers" (in the masculine form) are often passed down through generations in Japan and are considered part of the family heritage.

The quality and value of a lacquer depend on the number of layers, as well as the intricacy and style of its decoration. Experts in Japanese or Chinese lacquers base their appraisals on these criteria, along with the potential presence of the emperor's mark on pieces intended for the palace.

Therefore, it is important to have lacquer objects authenticated by a professional before putting them up for auction.