Traditional lacquerware Nawate fountain pen Furubihaku

Lid with striated molding

Yoshida Urushi is a lacquer workshop in Aizuwakamatsu that has been in operation for three generations.
The "Nawate Fountain Pen - Traditional Lacquer Crafts" was created by Yoshida Toru, a lacquer artist who, rather than being limited to Aizu lacquer techniques, considers shapes and techniques suited to the use of the vessel, and who considered shapes and techniques suited to fountain pens.
The lines running down the lid create a vertical visual effect and are designed to provide stability when opening and closing the lid when your fingers grip it, making it a true example of functional beauty.

Characteristics and history of Aizu lacquer

Aizu lacquerware is a craft made using traditional techniques that have been passed down since the Edo period in the Aizu region, located in the western part of Fukushima Prefecture. The humid climate unique to the basin makes it an ideal environment for working with lacquer.
They feature auspicious designs and a variety of beautiful decorations.
The history of Aizu lacquerware as an industry began in 1590 (Tensho 18) when Gamo Ujisato was appointed to the Aizu domain.
Due to its proximity to Edo, it became a major production area that handled the entire process, from cultivating lacquer trees to decorating, and also engaged in technological innovation, to the point where lacquer was being exported overseas by the end of the Edo period.

Lacquer Craftsman Toru Yoshida
Born in Aizuwakamatsu in 1968
1987: Joined the family lacquer workshop
1993: Studied under Mr. Sato Senro in Kiso, Nagano
1996: Became independent in Aizuwakamatsu
2002: Certified traditional craftsman
First solo exhibition in 2004. Since then, he has held multiple solo and group exhibitions.

* Sugurume lacquer: A concentrated lacquer with the moisture removed. All the lacquer used this time is Sugurume lacquer.