LACQUER

A short history of the know-how

This millennia-old craft originated in China before spreading to Southeast Asia, particularly Japan. Lacquer is both a material derived from the sap of a tree and a technique that uses this plant resin as a varnish to protect and waterproof everyday objects. Insoluble, impervious to decay, possessing incredible resilience and clinging steadfastly to materials like wood, metal, and leather, lacquer began its life simply, safeguarding weapons, tools, and furniture. Over time, its inherent aesthetic appeal, characterized by remarkable sheen and depth, elevated its status to an ornamental art. While the palette of colors remains focused on black, red, yellow, and green, Asian lacquer artisans have pioneered countless decorative techniques including engraving, sculptural work, the application of gold leaf, and mother-of-pearl inlay, among others.

It was in the 16th century that Europeans discovered lacquer. Driven by Western desires for this exotic material, some Parisian cabinetmakers readily disassembled existing furniture to integrate lacquered panels into bespoke pieces such as bookshelves, cabinets, and commodes. In the 18th century, the Martin brothers pioneered a distinctive imitation of Asian lacquer, made from pine resin and applied using the same principle of layering. This unique varnish was used to decorate Louis XV style furniture at Versailles. Two centuries later, during the Art Deco era, artists began to adopt lacquers designed for industry, such as nitrocellulose lacquer, made from the main component of gunpowder. And so, these techniques continue their journey into our modern age.

Today in France, only five master lacquer artists dedicate themselves daily to vegetable lacquer, including Nicolas Pinon. Trained in the techniques of kanshitsu and urushi by the great Japanese master Nagatoshi Onishi, he perpetuates this ancestral know-how in his workshop. Combining tradition and modernity, he also conducts innovative research by integrating new technologies into his lacquer practice.