Ōnishi IsaoBorn in Fukuoka Prefecture in 1944. Graduated from junior high school and went on to work as a carpenter, automobile mechanic, and electrician, among other jobs. In 1974 he joined the workshop of Akaji Yūsai, designated a living national treasure for his lacquer work; Ōnishi received the same honor in 2002.
1. One of the many brushes used to apply lacquer.
2. Ōnishi Isao in his workshop.
3. A 2010 “magewa” (bent rings) creation.
4. Top view of the 2010 piece.
5. The work begins with 100 wooden “magewa” rings.
6. Ōnishi assembles the rings into the shape of the dish.
7. A close look at one of his 2009 “magewa” creations.
8. Another view of the 2009 piece.
9. Applying cloth to prevent flaws when the wood expands or shrinks.
10. Ōnishi applies a coat of lacquer after affixing cloth to the work.
11. Polishing the piece with charcoal.
12. A 2003 Ōnishi “kurodame” creation, with clear coats applied over a colored base.
13. Another view of the 2003 “kurodame” piece, showing the base.
14. Raw lacquer, obtained from the sap of the lacquer tree.
15. Ōnishi filters and colors his own lacquer.
16. Closeup view of a 2010 “magewa” creation.
17. A full view of the 2010 piece.
18. The top coats are the final stage of creation.
19. A selection of the brushes he uses.
20. Closeup view of a 2008 creation.
21. The 2008 piece is oval in shape.
22. Ōnishi applies a top coat as a piece nears completion.
23. A few of the wood-shaping tools in Ōnishi’s workshop.
24. A view of the lacquering space.
25. One of his earlier works, a 1990 “magewa” piece in deep red.
26. Last, each piece is signed with the character “Isao.”
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