Vietnam   This lacquer product has been produced in a village 40 miles south of Hanoi in north vietnam using traditional techniques. The shape is produced using layer upon layer of bamboo, softened and then reformed. this shape is produces a beautiful effect. The lacquer process involves a number of stages:   The bamboo bowl/plate/vase is first covered with cloth and then a thin layer of tarry clay is applied. this is allowed to dry and then smoothed with fine sandpaper. this stage can take hours of work. If the item is to have a metallic finish silver or gold leaf is now applied. Following this, paint is applied (the best paint comes from japan and this is the paint we use).     After the paint has dried it is time to apply the lacquer. the lacquer used is not a commercial varnish; it's a natural product derived from a native Vietnamese tree. 16 layers of lacquer are applied. after each application the lacquer are applied. After each application the lacquer must be allowed to dry and is then polished. Therefore each layer of lacquer can take one day to complete.     Corners can be cut - such as using fewer layers of lacquer or using inferior paint but this always produces an inferior product.   A tradition lacquered product can and does take weeks to complete. it can take even longer if the weather conditions are bad or if it is harvesting or rice planting time, as all the workers disappear to work their rice paddies.   We hope you enjoy this piece and that you appreciate the skill and the time that has been invested in. has been invested in.