Born in 1945, Kunikatsu Seto is a lacquerware artist based in Wajima who embodies the essence of “beauty of use” in Mingei and preserving the timeless appeal of masterpieces. Seto is a self-taught artisan, honing his craft through meticulous study of ancient pottery and lacquerware. Influenced by the Mingei folk art movement, he specializes in creating lacquer pieces for everyday use. A notable feature of his works is his emphasis on hardening the lacquerware base. He saturates the wooden base with lacquer until it is unified, ensuring it does not absorb water and remains durable. Unlike traditional lacquerware that requires delicate handling, Seto’s pieces are designed for daily use, allowing for a more casual and practical approach.