ABOUT GATO MIKIO WOODWORKS
Since its founding more than a century ago, Gato Mikio has been a leading producer of Yamanaka lacquerware. Experts at their craft, their collaborative style combines artisanship, heritage, and innovation like few of their contemporaries.
THE PROCESS
Experts at the art of hikimono-kiji (turning wood on a lathe), Gato utilizes sturdy and warp-resistant hardwoods such as zelkova (keyaki), cherry birch (mizume), and horse chestnut (tochi). The wood is naturally dried to remove moisture before being lathed. While most lacquerware uses horizontally trimmed wood (yokogi-dori), Yamanaka-style lacquering requires carving the wood into thin slices vertically (tategi-dori). After it has been cut, the wood undergoes a lengthy lacquering process called fukiurushi that involves several rounds of lacquer being rubbed on, wiped off, and dried. Following traditional techniques, every step in this process is repeated five to ten times, then the product is dried extensively. This helps to accentuate the natural wood grain and creates a piece that will become more beautiful over time with prolonged use. Gato's designs provide a layered experience for the senses: the visual harmony of its sculptural form, the subtle aroma of fresh-cut wood, and an incredibly weightless feel. These impeccable qualities call to mind both the innate strength and noble fragility of the natural world.
ABOUT MORIHATA
"At Morihata International, we believe in lifestyle goods that are crafted with intention. Established in 2005 by husband-and-wife team Kaz and Yuka Morihata. Morihata is dedicated to finding and distributing the highest quality Japanese design products to a new international audience. Morihata represents designers and brands and is, in most cases, their exclusive American distributor. Our purpose is to make their innovative home, kitchen and lifestyle goods available beyond Japanese borders, and in that way connect Japanese artistry with the rest of the world."
Dimensions | Height: 3” Diameter: 4”
Made from Zelkova wood in Yamanaka, Japan
Food Safe, Non-toxic
ABOUT MORIHATA
Morihata is a company dedicated to sharing the quiet beauty of Japanese craftsmanship. Working closely with small studios and family-run workshops across Japan, they bring forward objects defined by thoughtful design, natural materials, and generations of artistry. Their collection celebrates simplicity, slow production, and the everyday elegance of well-made things, pieces that enrich daily rituals and age with grace.
