In Japan, the widespread use of shadow in all forms of art, from folding screens to representational painting, is clear evidence of the appreciation that the Japanese have for the nuances of light and dark. This is perhaps one reason for the long tradition of lacquerware in Japan. The beauty of the lacquer is brought out by the shadow and the subtle variations of light and shadow reveal the depth of its black gloss. When light hits the lacquer, other hidden colors appear. The delicate hand-painted maki-e on the hour marks of SBGW262 serve perfectly to prove the point.