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© All rights reserved
© Ayaka Umeda
© Ayaka Umeda
© Ayaka Umeda
© Hiroshi Wakai

Rikio & Kazuyori Hikimochi

  • Wajimanuri Studio RAKU
  • Lacquerer
  • Wajima, Japan
  • Master Artisan
Rikio & Kazuyori Hikimochi Lacquerer
Contact
Japanese, English
Hours:
By appointment only
Phone:
+81 768261346
© Ayaka Umeda

From father to son

  • • Rikio invented the Nerikanshitsu technique
  • • His son, Kazuyori, also explores lacquer's potential and promotes the craft overseas
  • • Wajima-nuri is the most famous variety of lacquerware in Japan

The city of Wajima on the northwestern coast of Japan is the birthplace of the traditional Wajima-nuri lacquerware method. Usually carried out by multiple craftspeople specialising in different stages, Rikio Hikimochi is one of few artisans who can handle the entire lacquering process. After a decade of apprenticeships, he established Studio RAKU in 1983. He then developed the Nerikanshitsu technique followed by the Kokemusu technique, which has the unique quality of turning a moss green colour over time. His son, Kazuyori, is also a lacquerware master and endeavours to combine materials long believed to be incompatible. Father and son alike are committed to sharing the beauty of Wajima lacquer by experimenting with new forms of expression and taking part in various restoration projects.

Read the full interview

Works

  • © Ayaka Umeda
  • © Hiroshi Ohno
  • © Hiroshi Ohno
  • © Ayaka Umeda
  • © Ayaka Umeda
Photo: © Ayaka Umeda
Kokemusu® Series

The Kokemusu series of drinkware utilises an original Nerikanshitsu (kneaded dry lacquer) technique, making it resistant to changes in climate conditions. The finish surprisingly turns a moss green hue over time.

Diameter 8.5 cm
Height 9.5 cm
Diameter 6 cm
Height 6 cm
Diameter 8 cm
Height 8 cm
Diameter 8.5 cm
Height 13 cm

Photo: © Hiroshi Ohno
Agarwood Kyara series

A delicate set of nesting bowls and Japanese-style cups, the Kyara series radiates a rich, amber-hued luster created in Wajima. The delicate linear pattern and sheen of the silver leaf beneath the vermillion lacquer will deepen over time. This unique series represents the restored charm of century-old lacquerware.

Diameter 6 cm
Height 6 cm
Diameter 8 cm
Height 8 cm
Diameter 12.5 cm
Height 8 cm
Diameter 12 cm
Height 5 cm
Diameter 11 cm
Height 3.4 cm

Photo: © Hiroshi Ohno
Agarwood teacup

This Kyara teacup radiates a rich, amber-hued luster created in Wajima. The delicate linear pattern and sheen of the silver leaf beneath the vermillion lacquer will deepen over time. This unique series represents the restored charm of century-old lacquerware.

Height 6 cm
Diameter 6 cm

Photo: © Ayaka Umeda
Urushi screens

Luxurious interior tiles from Wajimanuri Studio Raku reflect the form of bamboo in tea ceremony utensils combined with the Kokemusu design.

Length 30 cm
Width 30 cm
Height 1.8 cm

Photo: © Ayaka Umeda
Wajima Lacquerware matcha cup

A matcha cup adorned with the image of crabs playing on the shore, formed by the generous application of Nerikanshitsu (kneaded dry lacquer).

Height 8.7 cm
Diameter 12.5 cm

Enjoy an experience with Rikio & Kazuyori Hikimochi

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