The shimmering golden branches of a willow tree, a vigilant praying mantis standing atop an aubergine, sunlight falling on a flower: discover the spectacular detail and beauty of Japanese lacquer this summer.

The fascinating art of lacquer painting could be described as essentially Japanese. It’s painting presents a dream world inspired by the nature of classical Japanese literature. The creation of lacquer art demands incredible feats of concentration and attention, sometimes over a period of years, with their scenes made up of many dozens of meticulously painted layers of lacquer.

Rijksmuseum Amsterdam