Chapter 1
The alchemy of raw materials
Chapter 2
The tool is an extension of the body
Chapter 3
The battle against time
Chapter 4
Embracing the crack
Ch 1 · The alchemy of raw materials
louisvuitton Harvested from the Toxicodendron vernicifluum tree, raw urushi must cure inside a warm, humid wooden cupboard called a muro.
Quiz
Which chemical compound in Japanese Urushi lacquer causes skin irritation but polymerizes to form a glossy finish?
Quiz
Why do Urushi artisans place wet lacquered objects inside a humid wooden cabinet called a muro?
Fun Fact
Toxic beauty: Japanese urushi lacquer is so toxic that even its vapors can cause a rash, yet cured lacquerware is completely food-safe and chemically inert.
louisvuitton Atelier masters patiently refined raw Badakhshan stones into the finest royal blue paint.
Quiz
From which modern-day country did Renaissance artists source the lapis lazuli stone used to make ultramarine blue?
Quiz
How did historical pigment makers separate pure blue lazurite from the gray impurities of crushed lapis lazuli?
Glossary
raw material (noun)
The basic, unprocessed substance from which goods or finished products are manufactured. In 1837, Thierry Hermès began selecting premium harness leather to craft the workshop's first exquisite saddles.
The basic, unprocessed substance from which goods or finished products are manufactured. In 1837, Thierry Hermès began selecting premium harness leather to craft the workshop's first exquisite saddles.
Quiz
What natural substance did Aztec feather workers use as the primary glue for their intricate mosaics?
Quiz
What did traditional Chinese jade carvers use to slowly wear down and shape the stone?
Quiz
Why is it impossible to carve high-quality jade using standard steel hand tools?