About Murakami Kibori Taishu (Murakami Wood-Carved Lacquerware)
Murakami Kibori Taishu is a type of wood-carved lacquerware produced in Murakami City, Niigata Prefecture, independently developing the Chinese-origin 'taishu' (carved lacquer) technique during the Edo period. While traditional taishu involves carving into layers of built-up lacquer, Murakami's style carves intricate patterns directly into a wood base (such as paulownia) before finishing with red or black lacquer, establishing a unique local style. Characterized by elegant motifs of peonies, chrysanthemums, and pine-bamboo-plum along with deep lacquer hues, it is a Niigata tradition nurtured by the samurai culture of the Murakami domain.
Techniques & Materials
Craft terms are shown in the original Japanese — these are proper names with no standard English equivalents.
Techniques
Materials
Where to see & buy
Workshop names are in Japanese; links go to their official sites.
- 若林漆器店
- 村上市郷土資料館（えちごやむらかみ）