Kanshitsu box [Snakeskin]
SASAKI Gakuto
2013
W80×D80×H38mm
Materials: (Urushi) - Lacquer, (Aburazashi) - Hemp cloth, (Washi) - Japanese paper, (Gin) - Silver, (Kai) - Shell, (Ganryo) - Pigment/(Kanshitsu) - Dried lacquer, (Kawarinuri) - Changing color lacquer technique, (Raden) - Mother-of-pearl inlay, (Makie) - Sprinkled picture (a technique of Japanese lacquerware)
At first glance, it may appear to be a leather product, but it is, in fact, a box created using the dried lacquer technique. The motif is inspired by snake skin and is reproduced with lacquer. Upon opening the lid, the interior reveals a design adorned with gold dust sprinkled lacquer.
Coating layers of lacquer creates a resilient and beautiful surface, yet at times, it makes it hard to see what's inside. This kind of dilemma is a unique charm of lacquer art, but I think it's similar to various things thst happen around us. Take money, for instance—it's a handy way to put a value on things in numbers, but getting too fixated on those numbers might make us lose sight of their true worth.
I think it's essentialin today's society to not just focus on the surface of things but also to pay attention to those "invisible aspects". At the same time, seeking honesty in the unseen isn't just a trait of lacquer art; it's a vital spirit that has upheld Japan's culture.
Japanese craftsmanship has been honed over a long history.
What makes it unquie and attarctive is the amount of dedication and attention Japanese craftmen put into hidden details.
As a craft creator in Japan, I'll keep working hard to understand and share the real charm of Japanese culture.
——SASAKI Gakuto
Lacquerware Artist / SASAKI Gakuto
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