VINTGE Japanese Lacquerware Carved Koi Fish Dish W/lid Japan 9”/3” Kagawa BENTO

Based on traditional Japanese craftsmanship and its regional origin, this item is a piece of Kagawa lacquerware (Kagawa Shikki) typically made from the following materials: Core Material: The base is almost certainly natural wood, such as Japanese horse chestnut (tochi), zelkova (keyaki), or cherry. In some mid-century pieces, high-quality compressed wood fiber was also used to prevent warping. Surface Coating: It is finished with multiple layers of Urushi lacquer, a durable and waterproof resin made from the sap of the lacquer tree. This gives it that signature deep, satiny sheen.Textured Finish: The pebbled or hammered texture on the lid is characteristic of the Zokoku-nuri technique. This effect is often created by applying lacquer and then sprinkling it with a fine powder made from dried wild grasses or reeds before adding final layers of lacquer.Design Details: The stylized fish is likely hand-carved directly into the wood—a technique known as Sanuki carving (Sanuki-bori)—and then filled or highlighted with colored lacquer. **no shipping on weekends** Thanks for looking at our item.   Please review all photos for MEASUREMENTS, complete condition, and what is included.