posted on February 23, 2001 08:28:27 AM new
I have several small pieces inherited from relatives who traveled in Japan a great deal. They all appear to me to be lacquered and are very ornamental. Is there any way for me to tell if these are cheap imitations or the real thing? I confess I don't know anything about this area of stuff.
If pictures would help, I can post some later this weekend. Just wondering right now if there's a simple way to tell. --Adele
posted on February 23, 2001 04:29:58 PM new
It is really hard to say...Perhaps a few pictures would help. The style of the items can often determine the age, which in turn, can point to plastic age or real lacqer
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Gosh Shosh!
posted on February 23, 2001 04:44:27 PM new
Most of the Japanese lacquer that I am familiar with has been done over a wooden piece. If you turn the item upside down you may see wood underneath or in places where the lacquer may have chipped a bit.
Also the wooden items would be a bit heavier than plastic ones. Many of the wooden lacquered pieces have abalone or mother of pearl inlay done in a design.
I have seen the faux lacquer plastic jewel boxes so maybe I could tell from pictures. I am not an expert on this.
