Takahashi McGil shiro-urushi lime bowl and cherry spoon

Dimensions:

Bowl - W - 24.5cm x  H – 17.5cm

Spoon - L - 42.5cm x W - 5cm

Materials: lime and cherry wood

Method: Hand turned and carved 

Description:

The exterior of this set is organically textured, in keeping with its creating from hand-sourced lime and cherry wood. The contrast of colouring between these two materials draws out the fineness of this piece. It’s exotic materials is echoed throughout the piece, notably in its form, the irregularity of the rim emphasising the beautiful natural markings on the wood and its unique nature. The smooth interior acts in contrast to the tactile surface.

The textured exterior is finished with a ‘whitened’ shiro-urush, a traditional Japanese technique. Urushi originates from tree sap, and makes objects waterproof as well as adding strength. The smooth interior is in contrast to the pinched surface, which emphasises the original markings on the wood, protecting its natural beauty.

Inspired by functionality, McGil created this piece to be a tool for daily life. Carving and turning the form by hand, Takahashi’s artform is made through a collaborative process, with Mark woodturning and Kaori chiselling.  

About the Artist:

Takahashi McGil are an artistic duo comprised of husband and wife, Mark McGilvray and Kaori Takahashi, who met at Wimbledon School of Art where they both studied Fine Art. Mark is from South Africa and Kaori is from Japan and the pair now live and work in Devon, where they are part of the Devonshire Guild of Craftsmen. The pair combine Japanese and Western techniques, traditions and tools in their functional furniture and homeware designs. Originally, their pieces were intended solely for personal use, but their company was happily formed in 2016.