Eggshell

The art of eggshell inlay originated in China around the time of the Tang Dynasty
(618 - 907). The technique spread from China to Japan via Korea and was destined to   become one of the most well known traditional crafts practiced in Vietnam.

 One of nature's most fragile forms, the eggshell is inlaid into one of nature's most durable products, lacquer. The combination of these two materials, processed according
to techniques developed by skilled artisans centuries ago, make for some of the most   exquisite and original lacquer ware crafted by hand today. 

Fire is one of humankind's most important tools. The earliest use of controlled fire dates  from about 1,420,000 years ago. Eggshell inlay uses duck eggs that have already hatched, because of their inherent thickness and whiteness.

The shells are cleaned, arranged in a pan and carefully roasted over a bed of hot  charcoal. A range of coloration can be achieved, ranging from light mocha to deep
chocolate to burnished gold to ash black.

Contemporary artisans create molds from fibreglass enabling them to fashion  exceptional forms of variable size and scale: enormous planters, oversized vases
and bowls, long tables, chairs, consoles, mirrors, boxes, decorative plates, frames.
 
Delicate fingered, keen eyed artisans puzzle out patterns of irregular geometry from   broken off pieces of burnt eggshell. Each piece is carefully glued, one shard at a time,  on to the readied mold. Especial attention is given to spacing and its effect on the overall design. Multiple layers of lacquer are then applied and the piece is finished with purified beeswax polished to a high gloss.

Care suggestions

Car polish can be used to maintain your lacquer ware. Apply a small amount and use a very soft cloth to clean and polish the lacquered surface. If car polish, do not use any other chemical agent! Please use a very slightly damp, soft cloth to clean and polish the lacquered surface.
Do not expose your product to direct sunlight, submerge in water, or subject it to any     chemicals whatsoever. While no immediate damage may be visible, the health and          lasting beauty of your lacquer ware product will be compromised.