The Tsugaru Sabi-nuri Style of Lacquer Art
Tsugaru-nuri is a traditional art in lacquer art of Aomori Prefecture.
During the middle of the Edo Period (1603-1868), the Hirosaki Domain promoted the development of lacquer coating focusing on Hirosaki.
The mid part of the Edo Period featured stability among samurai families so sword sheaths of samurai took on decorative characteristics with the gorgeous colors of the modified Tsugaru-nuri becoming popular.
Tsugaru-nuri lacquerware spread all over Japan among lacquerware production areas as a special modified coating.
Tsugaru-nuri comes from the northernmost point of Honshu where is cold worsening the lacquer drying process and coloring.
Therefore, a modified grinding top coating technique was created.
Tsugaru-nuri features overlapping (uneven) layers of lacquer for a stronger and sturdier lacquerware and a unique feeling.
The Sabi-nuri added to this work is Tsugaru-nuri by Hirokazu Shimamori, a modern artist living in Hachinohe, Aomori.
He studied traditional Tsugaru-nuri technique to create an original type of lacquer coating for a piece overflowing with uniqueness through the accessories.
This briliant work of art uses difficult rusting technique without harming the elegance of the lacquer.


Exclusive Paulownia Wood Case
Paulownia wood which makes up the box is the perfect material for storing lacquerware products.
This box is made of high quality Japanese pawlownia wood with a detailed grainy texture.
The strap is a durable braid which doesn't bend easily and is said to have been often used by historical tea master Sen no Rikyu as a tea ceremony equipment.


Lacquer Artist Hirokazu Shimamori
Born in Hachinohe, Aomori Prefecture / Graduated University with a degree from the Art, Design and Metal Carving Dept. / Graduate of Tsugaru-nuri Research Center (Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture)
Award for Excellence: University Graduate Exhibition / Award for Excellence: Tsugaru-nuri Exhibition
In 2011, Hirokazu started up his own brand “LANDPROTECTO” to pursue the potentials of traditional artistic heritage.
His artistic style is a fusion of Urushi lacquer art and metal carving art, integrating tradition with original creativity to heighten the value of traditional arts and crafts.
Hirokazu’s unique works of art have won wide acclaim at countless solo exhibitions, group exhibitions and craft fairs.