Hira Maki-e 平蒔絵
平 flat · 蒔 sprinkle · 絵 picture
Hira maki-e is a flat maki-e technique in which patterns are painted with lacquer, then gold or silver powder is sprinkled before the lacquer hardens. The surface is then coated with clear lacquer and polished to create a smooth, luminous finish.
The craftsperson paints the design in lacquer, sprinkles metal powder onto the wet surface, applies a clear lacquer coat, and polishes the piece smooth. The result is a flat, glossy surface where the metal powder sits flush with the lacquer.
