Wajima - Eske - urushi stil - Japansk Wajima Nuri-boks

Bento Box Japanese Wajima Nuri
Wajima-nuri is a type of lacquerware produced in Wajima City, Ishikawa located in the northwest of Japan. The distinct feature of Wajima-nuri is its use of a unique powder, known as Wajima-ji, which is only found in Wajima. This local powder is a high-quality soil that, when used as a base layer, enhances the durability of the lacquerware. Additionally, the aesthetic beauty of Wajima-nuri is a significant aspect of its charm.

Wajima-nuri is well-known for its decorative techniques, such as inlaying gold into carved areas and the use of maki-e (a technique involving sprinkling gold and silver powders). The elegant appearance created by these techniques attracts considerable attention. Wajima-nuri is also notable for its longevity, as it undergoes over 100 processes before being completed, making it exceptionally sturdy and repairable if damaged.

There are various theories regarding the origins of Wajima-nuri. One theory suggests that it was introduced by monks from Negoro-ji Temple during the Muromachi period, while another suggests it was brought by monks fleeing from Toyotomi Hideyoshi's military during the Sengoku period from Negoro-ji Temple in Wakayama Prefecture. Although the precise origin remains unclear, many traditions agree that it evolved from Negoro-nuri, a type of daily-use lacquerware. The development of daily-use lacquerware into Wajima-nuri is also a plausible theory.

The form of Wajima-nuri similar to what we see today began to take shape in the early Edo period, around the 7th year of the Kan'ei era (1630). By the mid-Edo period, between the 2nd year of the Kyōhō era and the 4th year of the Genbun era (1716–1736), the processes had evolved to closely resemble those used today.

Although Wajima-nuri is now regarded as elegant and somewhat upscale, its image before the Showa era was different. Historically, it was commonly used as durable practical ware for ceremonial occasions. However, changes in ceremonial practices and its designation as a traditional craft by the Japanese government in 1975 have contributed to its current status as both a functional and artistic item.

On the lid, the Japanese kanji in cursive script reads “Wajima-nuri lacquerware Manju-sara,” (it means a lot of happiness.)decorated with a pure gold family crest. The family crest features a design based on the gentian flower, known as "Rindō-mon." The gentian crest is modeled after the gentian flower, which blooms in blue-purple hues in the fall, and its pattern resembles the flower and leaves, sometimes referred to as "sasa-rindō" due to the leaf’s similarity to bamboo leaves.

The Rindō-mon crest symbolizes various meanings and characteristics, including "loving those who are sad," "sincerity," "justice," and "a heart of tolerance."