The Timeless Craft of Natural Lacquer

— An Introduction to Traditional Chinese Furniture Finishing

  • By Ahui Chen

Published： Thursday, June 23, 2024

Source of Images: The Value

When it comes to traditional Chinese furniture finishing, one technique stands out for its historical significance and exceptional quality: natural lacquer, also known as “raw lacquer” or “国漆” (Guo Qi). This ancient craft has been perfected over millennia, resulting in furniture that is both beautiful and durable.

Natural lacquer has a rich history in China, dating back to the pre-Qin period (before 221 BC). It was highly valued for its ability to protect and beautify wooden surfaces. Archaeological findings, such as a 7,000-year-old lacquered wooden bowl unearthed in Hemudu, Zhejiang Province, highlight the long-standing tradition of lacquer use in China.

Source of Images: The Value

Environmental and Health Benefits

  • Environmentally Friendly

    Natural lacquer is harvested from lacquer trees as a milky white, gel-like substance. Because it comes from plants, it bonds exceptionally well with wood, penetrating deeply into its fibers. Its natural origin means it’s non-polluting, safe, and environmentally friendly, causing no harm to humans.

  • Durable and Long-Lasting Shine

    The lacquer forms a bright, durable film that maintains its shine over time. It does not fade, is resistant to stains, insect damage, and temperature changes. As a result, it offers excellent protection for wooden furniture.

  • Enhanced Wood Grain and Texture

    The transparency of natural lacquer allows the wood’s grain and texture to show through vividly, enhancing the natural beauty of the material. The process of applying lacquer involves repeatedly sanding and polishing layers of lacquer into the wood, ensuring the lacquer deeply penetrates and bonds with the wood. This not only provides superior protection but also improves with age, becoming smoother over time

Superior Performance

Natural lacquer is often referred to as the “king of coatings” due to its superior properties. It offers excellent resistance to corrosion, acids, and alkalis, and is highly durable and heat-resistant. This makes it an unmatched choice for high-quality wooden furniture that needs to withstand the test of time.

Intricate Craftsmanship

The process of applying natural lacquer is labor-intensive and requires great skill. It involves multiple steps, including priming, applying the lacquer, sanding, and polishing. Each layer of lacquer must be meticulously applied and dried in a controlled environment, typically taking a week to complete a single piece of furniture. This painstaking process ensures that the lacquer penetrates deeply into the wood, creating a bond that enhances both the beauty and durability.

Furniture finished with natural lacquer boasts a rich, glossy surface that enhances the natural grain and color of the wood. Over time, the lacquer develops a smooth, lustrous patina that adds to the piece’s character and charm. This unique aesthetic, combined with the protective qualities of lacquer, makes it a sought-after finish for high-end furniture.

Conclusion

Incorporating the ancient art of natural lacquer into your furniture not only brings a piece of Chinese heritage into your home but also offers unparalleled durability and beauty. Its eco-friendly nature and superior performance make it a perfect choice for those who appreciate the blend of tradition and sustainability. By understanding and appreciating the craftsmanship behind natural lacquer, we can better value the artistry and effort that goes into each exquisite piece of traditional Chinese furniture.

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