Lacquered Blue Qilin Ceramic Bowl

Texture & Material
A dialogue of fire and resin—within, a cobalt-laced iron body crackles with metallic blue grids (Qilin’s celestial armour); without, 23 layers of urushi lacquer ripple in nacreous whites, aubergine, and forest greens like petrified silk. The 0.1mm seam where ceramic meets lacquer thrums with crafted tension.

The Alchemy of Creation
Interior: Reduction-fired at 1280°C, cobalt oxide (Co₃O₄) and iron (Fe₂O₃) form hexagonal crystal grids under oxygen deprivation.
Exterior: Master lacquerers apply successive layers of Rhus verniciflua sap, each cured at 80% humidity—a 90-day dance of chemistry and patience.

Why This Demands Mastery
◻ Lacquer/ceramic thermal expansion mismatch ≤0.02mm
◻ Cobalt crystallization requires ±5°C kiln precision
◻ Urushi layers demand dust-free curing for 6hrs/layer

The Living Finish
Unlike static glazes, the urushi will:
✓ Transition from milky to translucent over years
✓ Develop amber "use patinas" where handled
✓ Resist acids (citrus, vinegar) yet yield to oils

Specifications
Diameter: 9 cm
Capacity: 100 ml
Height: 7 cm

Perfect Pairings:

Rice Wine and Plum Wine

Matcha and Black tea.

Sashimi and Seaweed.

Care: Hand-wash only; avoid extreme temperature changes

Note: Due to the natural firing process, variations in glaze patterns and color intensity are part of its charm.