Translation guide
Lacquerware refers to objects coated with lacquer, a natural or synthetic finish. In Japanese, the most common term is 漆器 (しっき), but there are specific words for different types and contexts.
lacquerware (general)
lacquerware (as a modifier, e.g., lacquerware bowl)
Attach the object after の, e.g., 漆塗りの椀 (lacquerware bowl).
The broad category of lacquered objects, such as bowls, trays, and boxes.
Referring to particular lacquered objects like bowls, trays, or boxes.
Referring to famous styles of lacquerware from specific regions in Japan.
Wajima lacquerware, a famous style from Ishikawa Prefecture known for its durability and elaborate decoration.
Discussing lacquerware in the context of traditional crafts or art forms.
Lacquer art, referring to the artistic or decorative aspect of lacquerware.
漆器 (しっき) is the standard modern term. 塗り物 (ぬりもの) is more traditional and often used in craft contexts or regional dialects. In everyday conversation, 漆器 is safer.
I collect lacquerware.
I drink miso soup from a lacquerware bowl.
輪島の塗り物は有名です。
Wajima lacquerware is famous.
Used as a modifier meaning 'lacquer-coated', often attached to the object name. For example, 漆塗りのお盆 (lacquerware tray).
I bought a lacquerware bowl.
This lacquerware box is an antique.
Using 漆器の + object is also possible but less common than 漆塗りの.
I'm looking for a lacquerware tray.
Wajima lacquerware chopsticks are luxury items.
Aizu lacquerware from Fukushima, known for its practical, everyday use items.
Aizu lacquerware bowls are sturdy.
Kyoto lacquerware, often featuring delicate designs and gold powder (蒔絵).
The techniques of Kyoto lacquerware are delicate.
He held an exhibition of lacquer art.
A specific technique of sprinkling gold or silver powder onto wet lacquer to create designs. Often associated with high-end lacquerware.
This maki-e box is from the Edo period.
Lacquerware is thriving in this region.
When describing a specific object, 漆塗りの (urushi-nuri no) is the most natural way to say 'lacquerware X'. For example, 'lacquerware tray' is 漆塗りの盆, not 漆器の盆 (which is understandable but less common).
この店は美しい漆器を売っています。
This shop sells beautiful lacquerware.