Decoration techniques: Maki-e and tsukegaki

Translated directly, maki-e means 'sprinkled picture'. Maki-e involves the application of urushi followed by the sprinkling on of metal powders to make a design. In this example, the patterned robes of the figures in the boat have been created using tsukegaki, a technique whereby fine maki-e lines are drawn on top of a maki-e background. Facial features have been skilfully picked out in black and red lacquer.