Lacquer has the ability to remain clear for years without being yellow usually associated with varnish, polyurethane, or shellac. The first piece of lacquer known today that is accepted as having been made in Japan is the Tamamushi Shrine in the Hōryū-Ji, and it is attributed to the 7th century.
Lacquer is primarily bused to generate an extremely shiny and glossy finish to a wood surface that is otherwise difficult to obtain via the use of varnishes, shellac, or other finishing substances. It is highly durable yet may scratch over time due to excessive contact.
