Oriental Lacquer and Polymer

Abstract

Oriental lacquer is a natural polymer obtained from lacquer sap. It is used as a painting and coating material and an adhesive agent. Maki-e lacquer is a beautiful and luxurious lacquerware that is made by sprinkling gold dust on the object. The lacquer works as an adhesive of the gold dust. A piece of maki-e lacquerware made using the original Japanese lacquer technique is a work of art. The lacquerware was exported to Europe in the latter half in the 16th century, and charmed an aristocrat who called “japan”. An imitation lacquer was developed from natural resins to make similar lacquerware in Europe. In this way, Japanese lacquerwares influenced European paints and painting techniques, and were instrumental in the cultural exchange between Japan and Europe. © 2007, The Society of Polymer Science, Japan. All rights reserved.