Hidehira Lacquer Ware Lacquer Iwate Prefecture Cooperative Union Iwate Lacquerware Association 2-10-23 Nakanohashi-tori, Morioka, Iwate Prefecture tel 0196-25-3170 Background This lacquer craft really began when Ohshu Fujiwara wielded power over Hiraizumi in Iwate Prefecture toward the end of the Heian period (794-1185). It was he who lent this support to the building of the temple, Chusonji with its famous Konjikido and many fine pieces of Buddhist art in general. Although Fujiwara's influence subsequently declined, by the end of the Edo period (1600-1868 ) the production of lacquer ware was in full flight in the village of Koromogawa near Hiraizumi and continues to this day. The robust nature of this ware comes from its priming undercoat of local material. The decorative motifs are based on a very old bowl and therefore bear a distinctive Genji cloud motif and another called the yusoku hishimonyo, which is a diamond motif. Although the gold leaf decorations produce an initial response, on closer inspection the final top coat of black and vermilion lacquer and decorations, play their part in modifying the tone of the work and allow the true beauty of the lacquer to shine through. Bowls and trays are the mainstay of production, which is supplemented by the making of candy bowls, stacking boxes or jubako, tea items and flower vases. In all, 12 firms sustain this craft, employing 108 staff, among whom 2 hold a government recognized qualification of Master Craftsmen.