Shibata Lacquerware
Lacquerware production in Takaoka began approximately four hundred years ago as a local industry at the same time as the establishment of Takaoka Castle and the city itself. Shibata Lacquerware was established in 1925 as a studio for engraved lacquerware.
In the beginning they were only adding lacquer to enhance the intricate woodcarvings they created. They were making small products such as storage containers, candy dishes, and plates, and large products such as tea cupboards and folding screens. They now also make sake cups, jewellery boxes, tea utensils and flower arrangement tools, inlaid with lustrous and delicate mother-of-pearl.
They recently began making accessories.
They also take orders for custom-made products. They are an original equipment manufacturer (OEM). They provide repair services for antique lacquerware. Their products are available from department stores and specialist stores in Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto. Japan’s mother-of-pearl products are well known to tourists from overseas due to the items on display at the Shoso-in treasure house inside Todai-ji Temple in Nara. Mother-of-pearl products are quite popular as souvenirs.