The Enduring Legacy of the Koami Family: Masters of Maki-e Lacquer For nearly two centuries and nineteen generations, the Koami family has stood as a beacon of artistic excellence in Japan, renowned for their mastery of maki-e lacquer – a technique that transforms wet lacquer into shimmering landscapes of gold, silver, and vibrant pigments. More than simply artisans, they were custodians of tradition, deeply intertwined with the fortunes of the nation’s ruling houses, shaping the aesthetic landscape of imperial courts and samurai residences alike. Their story is one of meticulous craftsmansh…