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The Secret Art of Japanese Lacquerware: Why is Maki-e so unique?
Japanese lacquerware, especially those using the Maki-e technique, is undoubtedly a combination of art and craft. Maki-e means painting with lacquer and then sprinkling gold or silver powder on it to create unique patterns and textures. The origins of this technique can be traced back to the Heian period and it is still widely respected today. When we learn more about Makie techniques, we can't help but wonder why it is unique among so many techniques?
The uniqueness of Makie lies in the complexity and delicacy of its production process. The creation of each piece requires years of experience and skills.
The craft and technique of Makie
Maki-e techniques can be divided into several main techniques, including hira maki-e, togidashi maki-e, and taka maki-e. The common point of these techniques is that they all require a difficult decoration process after the basic lacquerware is completed.
平嵵
The process of Hirame begins with a rough sketch, followed by tracing on thin paper, and finally applying lacquer to the design. Next, the artist uses a tiny tool to sprinkle metal powder on to create a luxurious effect. And this is just the beginning of the process, which will be repeated many times to create a smooth paint effect. This technique reached its peak in the Edo period and has become an important part of contemporary Japanese lacquerware art.
The technique of Hira-maki-e became popular in the middle and late Heian period and was gradually perfected in the Kamakura period.
Growing Makie
The process of grinding maki-e is similar to the former, but in the process of protecting the metal powder, the entire lacquerware is completely covered with a layer of black lacquer, which is then polished to reveal the surface of the metal powder. The advantage of this technology is that its surface is relatively smooth, which can better fix the powder, so it became the mainstream technology in the Heian period.
高嵵
Takashige mixes lacquer with charcoal or mineral powder to create a viscous lacquer, and then paints on the surface to create a three-dimensional effect. This technique allowed the lacquerware surface to be more vivid and was in the ascendant during the Muromachi period.
Gao Shi-e is highly praised by many artists for its unique three-dimensional sense and decorative effect, and has become a classic technique in lacquerware.
Classification and characteristics of metal powder
In the technique of Makie, the metal powder used can be divided into several categories according to its size and shape, including small powder Makie, flat powder Makie and round powder Makie. Small-particle powder is easy to handle, but its adhesion is weaker, while large-particle round powder is more difficult to handle, but has greater durability and a brighter appearance.
The choice of metal powder is crucial to the texture and effect of the final work. Fine and coarse particles will give the work completely different presentations.
Inheritance and future development
The art of makie is passed down through a master-apprentice system, and young artists usually need to spend many years learning and improving their skills in order to eventually become masters of makie. As the times change, although modern technology has made great progress, many artists still insist on using traditional techniques to create their works, which also makes the mystery and charm of Makie techniques continue to exist.
ConclusionJapan's Maki-e technique is not only a craft, but also a manifestation of culture. Each piece of lacquerware carries the hard work and wisdom of the maker. As we admire these magnificent works, should we also wonder whether such technology can continue to maintain its unique status and value in future generations?
