9.5in Vintage Black Urushi-Lacquered Wooden Plate, Japanese Sanuki Shikki

A vintage urushi-lacquered wooden plate made in Kagawa, Japan (Sanuki Shikki). Finished in a classic black style known as Zokoku-nuri (象谷塗), a traditional technique that highlights the natural wood form with a refined, matte urushi surface. The plate has a clean, minimal look with visible rokuronome (lathe marks), typical of Sanuki craftsmanship, and works well as both a functional piece and a decorative accent. If you enjoy a Japandi-style interior, this will be a perfect addition. Traditional Japanese lacquerware requires extensive handwork, and many long-standing makers have closed over the past 50 years. Bunshindo (文新堂), the manufacturer of this piece, has been in business for more than 100 years. The company traces its origins to craftsmen connected to the early lineage of Kagawa lacquerware, which was established by the renowned Tamakaji Zokoku. This plate was likely made 35+ years ago and has been incredibly well preserved. - Origin: Kagawa, Japan - Size: Approx. 9.5in diameter × 1.5in height - Estimated era: Likely 1970s-1980s based on the style of the label and the aging of the box. - Condition: Like-new condition. The plate itself looks unused. There are a few very small spots on the back that appear to be original lacquer irregularities, which are common for Zokoku-nuri lacquerware. The box shows aging, and the included paper insert has a tear. Background: These were part of my grandmother’s collection in Japan.