Reveal the Unseen Beauty of Chinkin Lacquer Art

There’s an enigmatic beauty to Chinkin (gold inlay) that distinguishes it from any other decorative technique. Whether portraying blooming gardens or lively scenes of birds and animals, Chinkin designs are composed of countless golden lines and dots. To the uninitiated, the effect is magical; to the discerning, the resulting object is an exceptional masterpiece.

Part of the Urushi (lacquer) art, the Chinkin technique carries a storied history spanning one millennium. Originating in China during the Song Dynasty (960–1279), Chinkin arrived in Japan during the Muromachi period (1338–1573), where fascinated artisans embraced and further developed the technique, creating elaborate and notable designs.

In the 21st century, Japanese artist Kiyoshi Torige is infusing this ancient art with a contemporary sensibility. Recipient of the esteemed Medal of Honour with Purple Ribbon from the Japanese government in 2021 for his contributions to Chinkin, Torige integrates traditional techniques with fresh themes, enriching the art form with his own artistic perspectives.

Carved into lacquer

Chinkin sets itself apart from the more widely known Urushi technique, Maki-e. While Maki-e practitioners delicately sprinkle gold powder onto lacquered surfaces, Chinkin artists carve into the lacquer and embed gold powder into their fine incisions.