Wappa Urushi Bento

Wappa bento boxes made from Japanese cedar have been beloved for centuries for their ability to control moisture content allowing rice in particular to not harden and remain the perfect texture. 

The cedar's natural antimicrobial characteristics also help prevent food from spoilage in the hot summer months. 

A 85 year old craftsman of Yamanaka Shikki has hand-lacquered each of them in urushi. 

Urushi is a traditional Japanese lacquer that has been used for over 9000 years, made from the resin of an urushi tree. It allows the bowl to not become too hot to the touch even with hot broth inside, while giving a warmth that only something handmade can provide. 

Urushi resin is produced by the urushi tree as a self-defensive mechanism when the tree is suffering- therefore it has many powerful characteristics that Japanese craftsman have valued, including antibacterial and insect repelling properties, an incredible durability and hardness, and a high resistance to water, acids and heat. 

Urushi lacquered objects continue to be highly valued in modern Japan, and used for important occasions such as wedding and religious ceremonies. 

Urushi lacquered bowls are often given as a gift to loved ones.

Do not soak it in water, microwave, or use in an oven. 

As it is made from natural wood, individual differences exist in color and pattern of the grain.

Store away from high humidity and direct sunlight.