At Kumohana, our mission is to bring objects of timeless beauty and quiet joy into your home. For our very first curated collection, we are thrilled to introduce the Urushi Kohako (Miniature Lacquerware Box) series, meticulously crafted by Isuke, a revered Kyoto institution with a 190-year heritage. Established in the late Edo period as an urushi (natural lacquer) merchant, Isuke seamlessly blends centuries-old craftsmanship with contemporary design—a philosophy that perfectly aligns with Kumohana’s artistic vision.
The moment you hold an Urushi Kohako, the sheer perfection of Japanese lacquerware becomes undeniable. Each edge is perfectly rounded, and the gloss finish is so impeccably smooth that you will not find a single pinprick, bubble, or uneven indentation. Achieving this level of zero-defect, glass-like coating on hand-applied lacquer is a rare feat, a testament to the master artisans who pour patience into every layer.
What truly captivates the eye is the sophisticated dialogue between the exterior and interior colours. This striking contrast instantly recalls the noblewomen of the Heian period, who expressed their refined taste through Kasane no Irome (襲の色目) —the art of layering kimonos with highly calculated contrasting silk linings. Isuke revives this aristocratic elegance with four exquisite palettes:
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Chidori (Plover Birds): A rich moss green exterior opening to a vibrant sun-yellow interior. The soaring plover represents resilience, safely navigating through the waves of life.
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Ume (Plum Blossom): A deep lacquer-red outer shell paired with a soft blossom-pink inside. As the first flower to bloom in late winter, it symbolises hope, perseverance, and the arrival of spring.
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Mt. Fuji: A classic deep navy offset by a serene slate-grey interior, paying homage to Japan’s sacred peak—a timeless symbol of immortality and soaring ambition.
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Hyotan (Gourd): A warm, playful orange exterior juxtaposed with a deep ink-blue inner lining. In Japanese folklore, the gourd is a powerful charm for good health, prosperity, and warding off misfortune.
ISUKE LACQUER BOX
A Kyoto lacquer box inspired by 190 years of Japanese heritage
Shop This Japanese Lacquer Box
Measuring approximately 10cm square, these compact treasure boxes offer endless versatility. They serve beautifully as an elegant jewellery case for your rings and cufflinks, a sophisticated keepsake box on your dressing table, or a unique trinket box to store loose tea bags, artisanal biscuits, or sweet treats.
Bring a piece of Kyoto’s living history into your daily ritual. The Urushi Kohako collection is now exclusively available at Kumohana—a perfect gift for someone special, or a quiet luxury for yourself.
ISUKE LACQUER BOX
A Kyoto lacquer box inspired by 190 years of Japanese heritage
Shop This Japanese Lacquer Box
