Japanning is a type of finish that originated as a European imitation of East Asian lacquerwork. It was first used on furniture, but was later much used on small items in metal. The word originated in
A Georgian japanned tin tea tray—severely worn—black lacquer and gilt made in Birmingham, UK
A japanned pocket watch from the 18th century
A Walpole commode from Strawberry Hill House
Robert Stroud & Co's Niphon (Japan) Works, c. 1865. Lower Villiers Street, Blakenhall Wolverhampton
Toxicodendron vernicifluum, also known by the common name Chinese lacquer tree, is an Asian tree species of genus Toxicodendron native to China and the Indian subcontinent, and cultivated in regions o
Japanning
…often called toleware. It is distinct from true East Asian lacquer, which is made by coating objects with a preparation based on the dried sap of the Toxicodendron vernicifluum tree, which was not available in Europe. Japanning is most often a heavy black lacquer, almost like enamel paint. Black is common, and japanning is…
Toxicodendron vernicifluum 01
Mature Toxicodendron vernicifluum, Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh
Leaves and immature fruit on a mature Toxicodendron vernicifluum, Edinburgh
Fruits of T. vernicifluum