Genuine lacquerware has a lightness and texture that feel very different from ceramic dishes. It is surprisingly light in the hand, and the rim does not feel as cold against the lips. The surface has the deep, subtle shine created by real lacquer, and serving soup or other food in it can make an ordinary meal look slightly more refined. The way its appearance gradually changes with years of use is also part of its appeal.
Not every black or red bowl found in a Japanese home, however, is made from wood and genuine lacquer. Many everyday bowls are made from resin and designed to resemble traditional lacquerware. Real lacquerware is expensive and requires a little more care, so not every Japanese household uses it regularly. Even so, some people choose a favorite piece and continue using it for many years.
Wooden lacquerware should not be stored in extremely dry conditions because the lacquer is not the only material affected by the surrounding air. The wood underneath also responds to changes in moisture. It absorbs and releases small amounts of moisture, expanding and shrinking slightly as the environment changes.
When the air becomes extremely dry, the wooden base may shrink. The lacquer coating on the surface does not always move in exactly the same way, and the difference between the two can cause cracking, warping, or distortion.
Lacquer creates a hard and durable surface, but it does not prevent the wood underneath from moving. The most dangerous places are beside a heater or directly in the path of warm air. Slightly dry indoor air is usually less harmful than sudden drying caused by heat and airflow. A windowsill exposed to strong sunlight for long periods is also unsuitable.
This does not mean that lacquerware requires a specially controlled room or a humidifier of its own. A room that is comfortable for people is normally suitable for lacquerware as well, as long as the piece is not placed directly in strong heat or warm air.
If the lacquerware will not be used for a long time, it is better not to leave it forgotten in a box for years. Taking it out occasionally—perhaps once a year—to check for cracks or changes in shape is usually enough.
Keeping it away from heaters and checking it occasionally requires very little effort. In return, its lightness, smooth feel, deep shine, and the way it feels against the lips can be enjoyed for many years.