Urushi: a traditional material for a sustainable future
a symposium on scientific and conservation challenges

Urushi (Asian lacquer) is a unique material that has captivated people in both the East and the West since ancient times, and in recent years, advances in scientific research and its potential contribution to a sustainable society have been anticipated. However, there are gaps between East and West, and between practitioners and scientists, in the research and practical application of lacquer. The organizers previously held international and interdisciplinary symposia on lacquer at the University of Pisa in Italy in February 2025 and at the British Museum in the UK in February 2026 with speakers and participants from all over the world, demonstrating high interest in urushi. This year, the symposium will be held in Kyoto. This symposium will address a wide range of topics, from the ecology and afforestation of the lacquer tree to the preparation of lacquer sap, preservation practices, science, and art, sharing knowledge and challenges related to lacquer across national borders, expanding international and interdisciplinary networks, and activating the global lacquer community.

Organized by

• Pincella Francesca (Kyoto U.)
• Mineo Keito (Kyoto U.)
• Forte Erika (Kyoto U.)
• Tamburini Diego (British Museum)
• Bonaduce Ilaria (Pisa U.)

Supported by
We acknowledge the support of the Toshiba International Foundation, Nakatsuji Foundation, International Joint usage/ Research Center (iJURC) of the Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, British Museum, and the University of Pisa.