History

The Vietnamese have known the techniques of crafting lacquer since it was utilized for waterproofing barges during ancient times. During the reign of Le Nhan Ton around 1450 B.C., the technique also became used for decorative items. In Vietnam during that time lacquer was so revered that only Emperors and Empresses were allowed to make use of it.
Lacquer ware is an incredibly time consuming art form. The lacquer that we use is a natural resin that is extracted by sapping the Kiurushi tree. It is milky white in its natural state and is turned black by mixing the resin for more than forty hours in an iron urn. The iron oxide blackens the lacquer and next this infuses to the resin to embody a shimmering gloss.

Process

The lacquer process begins once a mould is made, which is then coated and sanded over a period of 90 days.

There are fourteen layers of natural lacquer, which are applied. The first through the fourth layers of "urushiol" are applied and mixed with plaster. Layers five through fourteen are applied using only urushiol. Urushi is the name of a Japanese tree species, which is where the term urishiol is derived from. Its composition is extremely durable and offers an exceptionally glossy finish.
During these stages each layer is polished using water. In the final stage of this process 5 to 10 layers of color are added. The very last layer of color is polished with a very fine coal powder, which makes the lacquer sheen. Next there are three layers of color paint mixed with Urushi lacquer and then for the final layer a coat of polyurethane is applied.

Lacquer has been a quintessential part of the Far East for thousands of years. Its beauty has taken on the mold of countless forms whose value and attractiveness have only increased throughout the ages. Wetter Indochine brings to you traditional lacquer in a pure state coupled with the innovation of a western feeling.

Care

Lacquer ware is a very unique substance. With the proper care, your lacquer will give you enjoyment for many years to come. The following tips will help keep your lacquer pro-duct looking its best at all times.

To clean, please use lukewarm water, mild soap and a soft sponge.
Products are not recommended for wash in a dishwasher.
Products are not suitable for high temperatures.
All of our lacquer ware products are water resistant. However due to the fact that they are handmade, we recommend using a glass or metal container during water usage.
To bring out more shine, polish with mild car wax (for use on shiny finish only).
Products are not suitable for oily substances (matt finish only).
All lacquer products are suitable for indoors an outdoors use.