2026 Volume 72 Issue 2 Pages 171-189
This paper presents a general overview of Japanese lacquerware (shikki) production areas of Iwate Prefecture, which, although small in scale, have a long history and continue to produce Japanese ware in various parts of the prefecture. This paper also explores the characteristics of Japanese ware production that have not yet been fully understood, such as the use of Japanese lacquer (urushi) as a raw material, and the maintenance and utilization of tradition in the production of Japanese ware.
The research revealed the following main characteristics. Japanese ware manufacturers are scattered throughout the prefecture and are divided into northern, central, and southern regions; there are no clusters of Japanese ware production areas. All manufacturers use traditional techniques of wood and Japanese lacquer for their production. In terms of production items, a high percentage of bowls and other tableware products is characteristics of this production area. In addition, many of the manufacturers use locally produced Japanese lacquer as a raw material, and connections with the local community through the use of Japanese lacquer can be considered a unique characteristic of this production area located in a Japanese lacquer-producing region. Furthermore, even during the sluggish economic activity after the spread of COVID-19 infections, there was an increase in the production value of Joboji lacquerware. This increase in demand can be attributed to a consumer understanding of the tradition-oriented production philosophy of Joboji lacquerware.
The Japanese ware production area of Iwate Prefecture places great importance on the characteristics of the region as a Japanese lacquerware production area and continues to produce Japanese ware that makes the most of its traditions.
https://ror.org/00bx6dj65 