This set of five Japanese lacquerware soup bowls, known as 御吸物椀 (Owan), exemplifies the refined craftsmanship of Echizen lacquerware (越前漆器) Each bowl is handcrafted from natural wood (天然木) and finished with layers of genuine urushi lacquer (うるし塗装), giving it a rich, deep red hue and a smooth, lustrous surface that speaks to the artistry of true Japanese lacquerwork.
The bowls are decorated with elegant maki-e (蒔絵) designs, where gold and silver powders are meticulously applied to create motifs of fans and delicate flowers. These patterns not only enhance the beauty of the pieces but also carry auspicious symbolism, representing elegance, prosperity, and celebration. The craftsmanship is both intricate and subtle, a hallmark of high-quality Japanese tableware meant for formal dining and special occasions.
Each bowl comes with a perfectly fitting lid, designed to keep soups warm and aromatic while adding to the aesthetic harmony of the set. The set is housed in its original wooden presentation box, which is inscribed in Japanese calligraphy with the words 高級蒔絵付 御吸物椀, meaning “High-Grade Maki-e Soup Bowls.” Inside the box, an official label certifies the authenticity of the lacquerware, marked with the approval number SK-HI-0010 and issued by the Echizen Lacquerware Cooperative Association (越前漆器協同組合).
Intended for careful use, the bowls should be gently washed with water and wiped dry with a soft cloth. They should be kept away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures to preserve the urushi finish. Over time, the lacquer will continue to mature, developing a deeper sheen and character unique to natural lacquerware.
Size: 12 x 12 x 8cm (Bowl)
14 x 24 x 14cm (Box)
