Pencil set Negoro-nuri, Urushi

SKU: 010322

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For those who are passionate about Japanese culture, we present a unique pencil set. Consisting of three lime wood pencils in a hand-turned maple quiver. The special feature of these pencils is the elaborate finishing with Urushi lacquer. This special varnish was applied by the most famous German Urushi artist Manfred Schmid in the traditional technique of Negoro-nuri.

Negoro-nuri is one of the oldest decorative techniques in Japan, where after years of use, the red lacquer on the surface is worn away, revealing the black layer underneath. This effect is what makes the beauty of the Negoro lacquer technique. The use of this noble varnish makes each pencil a unique work of art that stands out from ordinary pencils.

Thus, the pencil set is not only a useful writing tool, but also a valuable art object. The feeling when writing with such a pencil is incomparable and leads to more mindfulness and awareness of what is often so little appreciated in everyday life.

The Urushi artist places great emphasis on the use of high quality materials, all sourced directly from Japan. The hand-turned maple quiver is an individual production.

This pencil set is thus a unique gift for those who are passionate about Japanese culture and aesthetics and appreciate the beauty in everyday life.

159,90 €

incl. 19% VAT , Free shipping to DE.

Low stock level
Delivery time: 1 - 3 Workdays (DE - int. shipments may differ)

Manufacturer data

"Pencil set Negoro-nuri, Urushi"

The structure of a pencil consists of three layers of black lacquer, one layer of red lacquer and a final polishing layer. First, two layers of black lacquer are applied, followed by a layer of red lacquer and another layer of black lacquer. Then the surface is partially sanded free down to the underlying layer of red lacquer, before a thin layer of polish and a final fine polish.

The Negoro-nuri technique originated at Negoro-ji, a temple in the domain of Kishu (now Wakayama Prefecture), which was very prosperous during the Kamakura to Nanbokucho period. During the siege of the temple in 1585 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1536-1598), the temple was set on fire, and the escaped craftsmen allegedly spread the Negoro lacquer technique to various parts of Japan. This technique is characterized by the red lacquer on the surface of Negoro ware wearing away after years of use, revealing a black layer underneath. These lacquer items, which reveal their beauty over time, were highly prized by tea practitioners and art lovers. Negoro is among the oldest decorative techniques in Japan.

For the Urushi artist, the beauty of this technique can be found in the fact that the wear of the surface is not perceived as a flaw, but is the real beauty. Although finishing a pencil with Japanese lacquer is often perceived as a waste, the finite nature of the product inspires the artist to be more conscious of the pencil as a resource. Turning the pencil while writing allows it to be used longer, which can lead to more mindfulness and awareness of the value of everyday things. The incredible tactile experience of handling such a pencil increases awareness of the beauty of the material and the importance of craftsmanship.

Colour:	Red
Material:	Maple
Protective lacquer:	Urushi

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Review Information

Manfred Schmid

Manfred Schmid is a renowned Urushi artist from Bremen, Germany, known for his impressive works with Japanese Urushi lacquer. His passion for Japanese art and culture began in his early youth. For the past 25 years, he has been extensively studying and developing the Japanese lacquer technique into his own form of art. Schmid has realized numerous projects in Germany and internationally, including commissions for museums, galleries, private collections, and public spaces. His works have been showcased in many exhibitions across Europe, Asia, and North America.

As a pioneer in Urushi art, Schmid has recognized the significance of this technique for the contemporary art scene, thus significantly contributing to the increasing recognition of Japanese lacquer as a high-quality artistic material in Europe. Overall, Manfred Schmid is a significant Urushi artist whose work is characterized by innovation, creativity, and high technical skill. His contribution to the preservation and advancement of this traditional Japanese art form is invaluable.