This Japanese zataku low table is crafted in wakasa nuri lacquer with inclusions of mother of pearl (raden) flakes. Zataku were known as communal dining tables which came to prominence in the Taishō era (1912 - 1926). It would be a dramatic and functional coffee table. 

Wakasa nuri lacquer technique mimics the beautiful depths and patterns on the seabed of Wakasa Bay. It is painstakingly intensive work involving hundreds of layers of lacquer, each partially rubbed through to reveal layers beneath. The technique was created by Sanjuro Matsuura between 1596 - 1615. Wakasa lacquer is exclusively made in the Obama domain in Fukui, Southern Japan. A dying craft, there are only four Wakasa artisans remaining as of 2020. 

Dimensions:

105 x 75 x 32 (wxdxh cms)

References:

A similar example can be found in 'Traditional Japanese Furniture: A Definitive Guide' by Kazuko Koizumi fig. 256.  

From Japan

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