A Study in Shadows: The Depth of Sumi-Urushi
Within a quiet, lacquer-black surface, the spirit of the wood lives on. This exceptional plate is finished in Sumi-urushi (墨漆)—a rare, artisanal technique that infuses natural urushi lacquer with traditional pine soot. Unlike flat, ordinary black pigments, this combination yields a heavy, ink-like depth and a quiet texture that feels entirely unique to the touch.

Still, yet never static, the beauty of this piece lies in its transience. Under ambient light, a striking radial grain rises faintly through the dark lacquer, revealing a glimpse of its intricate pattern before retreating back into the shadows.

The Rays Pattern: Shifting Light and Geometry
Beneath the dark ink of the Sumi-urushi, the plate features Mori Kougei’s signature Kōsen-bari (Rays) technique. Micro-thin wood veneers are meticulously hand-cut into perfect triangles and arranged radially from the center. This geometric sunburst pattern interacts effortlessly with incoming light; as the angle changes, the submerged grain surfaces with a fleeting, ghostly shimmer that gives the plate a commanding presence on any table.

A Living Heirloom for the Contemporary Table
Perfect for both meditative daily meals and elevated formal hosting, this plate is built to endure. Natural urushi lacquer has been revered in Japan for over 10,000 years for its incredible resilience against heat, acids, and alkalis. True to the legacy of authentic Japanese lacquerware, the finish will never fade—instead, it matures over time, deepening in richness, warmth, and luster with every single use.

Product Specifications

Material: White Sycamore
Finish: Sumi-urushi — pine soot × natural urushi lacquer
Renowned for its ripple figure, the wood's radial grain sinks deep into the sumi-urushi black, surfacing with a subtle shimmer as it catches angled light.
Dimensions: Ø 14.2" × 0.5" H (Ø 360× 12 mm)

Product Care

• Hand-wash only, and wipe dry immediately with a soft cloth to prevent warping or cracking from prolonged moisture.
• Avoid exposure to direct sunlight, extreme temperature changes, high humidity, or refrigeration.
• Do not leave oily or strongly colored foods on the surface for extended periods.
• Not suitable for use in microwave ovens or dishwashers.
• Please note that each handcrafted piece features its own unique wood grain and color variations.
• Note on Urushi: Fully cured lacquer rarely causes skin reactions, but if an allergic response occurs, please consult a medical professional.

Ships within 2 business days if in stock. Once sold out, contact us at help@arj.la to inquire about availability.