BRAND

Suitouyo

Yasuto Kosaka, the second generation, envisioned, "If glassware coated with lacquer could be created, it would be something uniquely beautiful."
Through collaborative research with the Nagano Prefectural Industrial Research Institute, they developed lacquer baking and coating techniques on glass. In 1994, they pioneered the creation of new lacquerware using glass as a base material nationwide.
This product, which binds incompatible materials (glass and lacquer), derives its name "Suitouyo" from the Nagasaki dialect, symbolizing transparency ("sui") and the harmonious fusion ("touyo") of different materials, echoing the influence of glass from the West.
From everyday use to special occasions, Suitouyo is cherished as a symbol of connection and celebration in life's significant moments.

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hyakushiki 百色

Beautiful, sincere, and thrilling lacquer glass.

In the land where the tradition of Kiso lacquerware thrives, we envisioned a new expression of lacquer.
A glossy finish that combines elegance and tranquility,
Embodying the color scheme of Japanese aesthetic consciousness,
Offering a texture that feels as if it's being absorbed by the skin.
When the allure of lacquer meets the cool transparency of glass, it redefines the image of lacquerware.

In 1994, pioneering the field of lacquer glass with "Suitouyo," we embarked on a quest for lacquer glass tableware that could enhance a wider range of culinary experiences. With a desire to transform the essence of lacquer into something user-friendly and enjoyable, we experimented tirelessly. In 2013, the new and sophisticated lacquer glass “hyakushiki" was born. hyakushiki evokes the kaleidoscope known as “Hyakushiki Megane" from the past*, representing a brand of uniquely expressive lacquer glass.
*The word for kaleidoscope, Hyakuiro Megane, means a hundred colored glasses, however the characters for hyakuiro (百色) can be also read as hyakushiki.

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Jeweki

From the glass brand “hyakushiki," a new accessory line called "Jeweki" (resin) is born. Craft designer Yashu Ide was enlisted for the product design, combining glass crafted by HARIO Lampwork Factory with lacquer applied by MAYOSHI KOSAKA, creating handmade lacquer glass accessories.

Lacquer brings moisture, giving life to glass, While glass provides substance to lacquer, akin to skin.

Liquid and solid, representing the duality of lacquer.
Urushi resin marks the origin of lacquerware.
Jeweki embodies the memory of "Urushi" through lacquer glass accessories.
Lacquer, extracted in minuscule amounts (only 200cc per Urushi tree) is a precious coating material.
Not only durable against water, heat, and chemicals, it is also an environmentally friendly natural material, unmatched by any other coating material. Captivating locals and garnering attention to the extent of expanding Japanism, Japanese culture has fascinated many. Lacquer art stands at the forefront of Japanese craftsmanship, evolving throughout its long history dating back to the Stone Age.
However, amidst changing times, people's memory of lacquer is beginning to fade.
In order to revive the unique aesthetic and values brought forth by this tradition, we endeavor to preserve the memory of lacquer in tangible form.

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woodpia

Woodpia The Kiso Valley has long been known for its thriving forestry industry. Surrounded by rich forests of Kiso Hinoki and other hardwood trees, we have lived a life closely intertwined with nature and wood.
"Woodpia" is a brand of wooden furniture born from such a lifestyle. We have re-examined traditional wooden furniture starting from its structure, incorporating features that has good ventilation and conforms to the body, giving it a relaxing feel. The scent of wood and its gentle touch complement our daily lives.

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Mempa / Others

Our craftsmanship at MARUYOSHI KOSAKA Wood & Urushi Works is rooted in Kiso lacquerware tradition and evolving within modern contexts. Our goal is to create tools that enrich lives by utilizing resources discovered from exploration, adapting them for the present. From "Mempa" to dining utensils, furniture, and interior products, we meticulously design each item with the woodworking and lacquering skills inherited from Kiso lacquerware's roots.

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