This introduction to the catalogue for a 1951 lacquer exhibition begins with some philosophical reflections about the genesis of art out of utilitarian craftsmanship. Lacquer refers to a number of distinct materials, among them the sap from a tree of the genus Rhus (China) and an artificial mixture of copal resin, fatty oils, turpentine, and pigment used in European lacquer. Oriental methods of producing lacquer from tree resins and techniques of application are described briefly, with reference to the oriental pieces appearing in the exhibition. There is also a brief history of lacquer craftsmanship in China and Japan. Contrasts between Chinese and Japanese characters and approaches to art are highlighted. Some pieces of Persian lacquer, which is an insect product, were also included in the exhibition. Lacquer work of Mexico and South America is also included in the exhibition, but is characterized as garish and clumsy (p. 10) in this introduction. Some recent pieces are included as well. The catalogue listing, by geographic region, follows the introduction.