Maki-e
/ˌmɑːkiˈeɪ/noun
A Japanese lacquerware technique in which metal powders are sprinkled onto wet lacquer to create decorative images and patterns.
Did you know?Maki-e artisans traditionally sprinkled gold, silver, or other powders through tubes or sieves onto lacquer, producing effects ranging from flat designs to raised, sculptural surfaces.
Etymological Timeline
Old Japanese
Japanese
撒き (maki)
“Scattering or sprinkling; derived from the verb maku, “to scatter” or “to sprinkle.””
Old Japanese
Japanese
絵 (e)
“Picture, drawing, or painted image.”
Heian Period, 8th–12th centuries
Japanese
蒔絵 (maki-e)
“A lacquer decoration made by sprinkling metallic powders onto wet lacquer; the technique flourished in aristocratic Japan.”
Edo Period, 17th–19th centuries
Japanese
蒔絵 (maki-e)
“A highly developed decorative lacquer art used on boxes, writing implements, furniture, and ceremonial objects.”
19th Century
English
maki-e
“A Japanese lacquer technique adopted as an English art-historical and craft term.”
Modern English
English
maki-e
“Decorative Japanese lacquerwork made by sprinkling powder onto lacquer.”