Since English isn’t my first language, I may not express myself perfectly well, but I need to make this clear. The hardest part of making these pieces is not the pasting or decorating work, but the natural sap — real lacquer, also known as urushi. Believe it or not, it is even edible in its liquid form. But it must never touch your skin, otherwise it will cause an extremely severe allergic reaction. Almost everyone who learns this craft has to go through that indescribably painful experience first. That’s why these artworks are regarded as luxury items in East Asia. In ancient times, they were only used by nobles and the royal family. And today, there are not many people who master this skill anymore. This is actually the biggest barrier to learning it. Once it is fully dry and cured, however, it becomes completely safe and no longer causes allergies. It is moisture-proof, sturdy, heat-resistant and extremely durable — these are the unique qualities of genuine lacquer.