Transform an antique ceramic with 100% natural urushi lacquer and pure gold dust

Details

• Private Experience

• Location: Nakano, Tokyo

• 2.5 hours per session

• 4 person max

• Offered in Japanese, with friendly Deeper Japan guide interpreting in English
  (French/German/Spanish interpretation available upon request)

Symbolic beauty

In the practice of kintsugi, which means “golden joinery”, cracked pottery is given a second life through the binding power of gold lacquer. It’s said that this technique may have originated in the late 15th century when the shogun of Japan sent back damaged pottery to China, only  to have it returned, unsatisfactorily fixed with metal staples. In response, craftsmen came up with the alternative technique of kintsugi to repair such items. This technique perfectly represents the Japanese aesthetic value of 'wabi-sabi', or the acceptance of imperfection as part of beauty, which has its origins in Buddhist philosophy. Celebrating the beauty of brokenness, Kintsugi not only produces unique pottery but is powerfully symbolic.

What you’ll do

Incorporating 100% natural urushi lacquer, this private workshop is a rare opportunity to learn about truly historic kintsugi techniques. You’ll get to apply the finishing steps on an antique Japanese ceramic piece that’s been prepared in advance with urushi, which takes months to dry. The kintsugi artisan will carefully explain the unique characteristics of this traditional Japanese lacquer and the preparatory techniques she applies. Take home your one-of-a-kind ceramic, glimmering with pure gold, that is sure to be a meaningful conversation piece and reminder of your adventures in Japan

What’s included

• Antique ceramic piece

• Pure gold or silver dust (based on your preference)

• Tools to use during workshop

• Photos that show the prior steps off how urushi was used to repair the ceramic

Availability

14:00-16:30

Who can attend?

Children must be 12+

What to wear/Bring

• An apron/smock

• Writing instrument

• Cardboard box

What else you should know

• This is a private experience

• As natural lacquer is derived from a plant in the poison ivy family, it may irritate skin. Gloves will be provided for use during the experience.

• The ceramic that you repair cannot be put in the microwave, dishwasher or the oven and should be kept at room temperature. Please do not scrub with any harsh materials.

Access

50 minutes from Tokyo Station.

Cancellation Policy

See cancellation policy here.
Please make your booking at least a week in advance.
* A detailed itinerary will be emailed to you once your booking has been confirmed.