Global Launch Interview: Yamakyu Japanware Brings the Art of Lacquer to America

Takumi Project Chess Set. Photo by David Warren/ Associated Press
 

By WM July 4, 2025

Yamakyu Japanware Co., Ltd., one of Japan’s leading lacquerware manufacturers, hosted its global launch event in New York City. Held at the Michelin-starred Japanese restaurant Hirohisa in SoHo, the red-carpet affair was hosted by Japanese model, actress, and artist muse Mie Iwatsuki (@mieiwatsuki).

The evening began with opening remarks from CEO Taizo Yamamoto, followed by the unveiling of the art exhibition “The Beauty of Lacquer and the Future – Together with Japanese Aesthetics.” The centerpiece of the show was an extraordinary half-million-dollar chess set, meticulously crafted by top Japanese lacquer artisans as part of the TAKUMI Project. Alongside it, the company presented a curated selection of elegant tableware, with table design by Ikuko Oishi (@atelierdeikukony), aiming to introduce urushi—the art of Japanese lacquer—as both tradition and “usable art” to American audiences.

Adding to the celebratory atmosphere, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees Kool & the Gang sponsored the champagne toast with their exclusive label, Le KOOL Champagne.

The launch drew notable attendees from across the art and design world, including Richard Vine (former Art in America managing editor), luxury brand consultant and author Joseph Barrato, art collector Victor Ozeri, and artist Marcellus Hall. Entertainment journalist Shelli Stelmak covered the event.

 From left, Adam Kluger, Victor Ozeri, Marcellus Hall, Susan Hersh, Katia Biassouv, Shelli Stelmak, Taizo Yamamoto CEO, Yamakyu Japanware Co., Ltd, Mie Iwatsuki, Olga Ferrara, Ikuko Oishi, Richard Vine. Photo by David Warren/ Associated Press

An Interview with Yamakyu Japanware

WM: What inspired you to bring your lacquerware to America?

Yamakyu: We wanted to share the art of urushi with people who value beauty and craft around the world.

WM: What do you find most beautiful about urushi, natural Japanese lacquer?

Yamakyu: Its warmth and deep, quiet beauty.

WM: Why do you think Japanese craftsmanship is appreciated overseas?

Yamakyu: Because it’s not just technique—it’s spirit, a respect for nature, and lasting beauty. We want to pass down this tradition and hope that Western audiences will embrace lacquerware as part of daily life—from tableware to fashion—treating it as “usable art.”

WM: The $500,000 lacquer chess set was a highlight of the launch. Can you tell us more about it?

Yamakyu: The TAKUMI Chess Set is a signature creation of our TAKUMI Project, produced in our Sabae City workshop, founded in 1930. Inspired by Japan’s Sengoku (Warring States) period, it unites master artisans in lacquer, metalwork, and maki-e. It’s a “usable artwork” that exemplifies the pinnacle of traditional Japanese craftsmanship.

Yamakyu Tablewares – Table design by Ikuko Oishi. Photo by David Warren/ Associated Press

WM: What exactly is the TAKUMI Project?

Yamakyu: It’s our initiative to elevate Japanese craftsmanship from functional items to fine art. It connects creators across Japan to co-create luxurious collectible works for global markets.

WM: Has the chess set received international recognition?

Yamakyu: Yes. In January 2024, it received the Visual Impression Award at Kyoto, Japan in Dubai, a government-endorsed event. Mr. Hirose, our collaborator and lead fabricator, accepted the award, garnering global investor attention.

WM: What techniques and technologies went into its creation?

Yamakyu: The chess pieces were designed by Hisakazu Suzuki, inspired by Sengoku-era figures. Each is precision-machined from stainless steel using 5-axis linear-driven technology by Hirose Co., Ltd., then finished with urushi and detailed maki-e (gold, silver, and platinum decoration) by master artisans from the Echizen and Kaga regions.

WM: Tell us about the chessboard design.

Yamakyu: The board is crafted from aluminum with alternating black and red lacquer squares in the traditional ichimatsu pattern. At each corner, you’ll find abalone shell raden inlays, evoking waves of light—symbolizing a vast ocean battlefield. It’s a balance of stillness and tension rooted in Japanese aesthetics.

Mie Iwatsuki, Taizo Yamamoto CEO and Shelli Stelmak. 
Photo by David Warren/ Associated Press

Ikuko Oishi

Victor Ozeri
 

Richard Vine
 

Marcellus Hall
 

WM: What are the design inspirations behind each chess piece?

Yamakyu:

• King (Tonō): A warrior’s kabuto helmet and jinbaori cloak, adorned with phoenix and dragon motifs.
• Queen (Hime): Modeled on Heian court fashion, layered kimono, and floral symbolism.
• Bishop (Sōryo): Clerical robes with cloud and chrysanthemum patterns—two faces in one.
• Rook (Shiro): Castles and auspicious sayagata patterns.
• Knight (Kiba): Strength and nobility, with soaring phoenix in maki-e.
• Pawn (Hei): Each has a unique floral motif, symbolizing the spirit of the warrior class.

WM: How long does it take to make the set?

Yamakyu: Each piece is handcrafted, and a full set typically takes 3 to 6 months to produce. We encourage clients to inquire for current lead times.

WM: Thank you and congratulations on your launch. We look forward to seeing what’s next.

Yamakyu: Thank you for having us. To explore more of our tableware and art projects, please visit:

https://linktr.ee/yamakyu_urushi.en

For collaborations or inquiries, please contact us via Instagram @yamakyu_urushi.en. We’re excited to connect with U.S. partners and continue sharing the world of Japanese lacquer with new audiences.