Japanese Lacquer

(also Chinese lacquer), a varnish obtained from the latex of the trunks and branches of the Japanese varnish tree (Rhus verniciflua), which grows in Japan and China. When exposed to the air, the latex gradually turns brown and then black. Cinnabar is added to produce red Japanese lacquer, and gold to produce gold Japanese lacquer. The lacquer is noted for great strength and resistance to atmospheric influences. Articles coated with Japanese lacquer retain their brilliance and color for centuries.