Raden(=Mother-of-Pearl inlay) is a decorative technique whereby shavings of the iridescent inner coating of such sea shells as turban shells, earl shells, and pearl oyster shells is cut into shapes or into small pieces and affixed to objects. Depending on the shape or thickness of the shells, they were used in a variety of ways, always in connection with lacquer, a special East Asian adhesive and coating material.
This book takes up the masterpieces of Raden lacquer ware and introduces the beauty of Raden work with large-sized photographs. Of particular note in this book is the large number of excellent photographs of Raden's work, which are full-scale or larger. You can appreciate the delicate colors and brilliance of seashells and lacquer.
Approximately 180 Raden works are included, of which 16 are national treasures and 19 are important cultural properties, and the production areas are Japan, Okinawa, China, and the Korean Peninsula. The works are introduced in 6 chapters, "Raden work by thick shell", "Raden work by thin shell", "Propagation of Raden method", "Various Raden work", "Exquisite Raden work", "Simple Raden work". At the end of the book, there is an eight-page commentary on Raden in English, which describes its history and techniques. The work list is also translated into English. We highly recommend this book to enthusiasts of lacquer ware.
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Publisher: Dohosha Publishing Co., Ltd., Kyoto
Hardcover with slipcase and shipping box, 410pages
Book size: 270 x 380 x 40mm (10.6 X 15.0 X 1.6inches)
Book weight: approx 3510g
Language: Japanese / English
Plates: all in colors, except for plates on commentary page