Chinkin-bori

A technique of lacquer decoration where patterns are cut into the lacquered surface, more lacquer is applied and gold foil or gold dust is placed in the incised areas, becoming cemented into the designs when the lacquer dries. This technique was introduced to Japan from China, where it was known as "ts'ang-chin", during the Muromachi period (1392-1573) and became particularly popular in the 18th century.