One of the most well known Japanese natural paints "漆-Lacquer-"

 In English, pottery is called "China", but which craft do you think is called "Japan"? It is Japanese lacquerware.

-Lacquer-

It is said that the etymology of the word "漆(Urushi)-lacquer-" is "麗し(Uruwashi)-beautiful-".
Furthermore, it is said that the Kanji for "lacquer" comes from the appearance of water dripping from a tree.
As you can see from its origin, lacquer is one of the most beautiful paints used in Japan. 

- How to care for lacquer ware -

• Do not leave it in water for a long time

Because of the painted area will blister and peel off easily. When you wash it, avoid using a dishwasher or dish dryer. If fingerprints are left on the surface, wipe it with a dry soft cloth.

• Avoid sudden temperature changes

Lacquerware is sensitive to sudden changes in temperature, so avoid using open flame, an oven or a microwave oven.

When storing, avoid places near air conditioning or heating apparatus, or places with extremely high humidity or temperature.

- Colors of Lacquer -

When people think of lacquer, the color that comes to mind is probably black.
In fact, by mixing different pigments, other colors can be produced.
However, since the original lacquer is brownish, there is a limit to the number of colors that can be produced.

For example, white lacquer is made by mixing white pigment with the original brown and it becomes like a cream color.
It is called "white lacquer" in the world of lacquerware.