WOOD

Japan is rich in forests, and wooden vessels have been used since the Jomon period. Wood is characterized by its lightness and strength, but also by its vulnerability to moisture and dryness.

Therefore, Japan has distinctive wooden vessels such as lacquered vessels (lacquerware) made to make wood last longer, yose woodwork made by gathering pieces of wood together to create unique patterns while still taking advantage of the wood’s texture, and Kamakura carvings, which feature carvings on the surface of wood.