Shibayama

Shibayama is a Japanese town in Chiba Prefecture. Shibayama is an art form originating in Japan. It involves lacquering objects with semi-precious materials in a very special style. Objects that are generally vases, boxes, and katana cases. Such objects made in the Meiji* era, because of their delicacy and preciousness, are valued highly and sought after by many collectors. Shibayama 's work is a combination of inlay and relief that marries the two techniques in a way that highlights their most spectacular features. It was first used in Japan in the 18th century to decorate ornaments and objects for personal use. [...]