How do I clean antique lacquerware?

Dust surfaces gently with a soft, dry microfibre cloth. Avoid all commercial polishes, solvents and water. Keep pieces away from direct sunlight and radiators to prevent the wood underneath from drying and cracking the lacquer surface.

Can I use these trays and boxes daily?

Most decorative boxes and trays tolerate light daily use such as holding small items or dry objects. Avoid placing damp or hot items directly onto antique lacquer. Sake sets and barware from the early twentieth century were made for service, but gentle handling preserves their delicate painted details and gold leaf.

How do I distinguish Chinese from Japanese lacquer?

Chinese pieces often feature deep, heavy carved cinnabar or dark cabinets with elaborate mother-of-pearl inlay. Japanese items frequently display refined Meiji period gold hiramie work, delicate sake cup sets and fine-lined painting. Materials and motifs offer further clues, with Chinese works frequently showing imperial symbols and Japanese pieces depicting natural scenes.

What is the difference between cinnabar and standard lacquer?

Cinnabar lacquer involves building up dozens of thick layers of red lacquer before carving the design directly into the hardened material. Standard lacquer may consist of black or coloured coats with painted, inlaid or gilded decoration on the flat surface rather than deep carved relief.