Haji

Wax tree bark, interior

Description

Wax tree bark, exterior

The Japanese name for a traditional Japanese yellow colorant obtained from the Japanese wax tree, (Rhus succedanea). The major colorant in haji is Fustin. The wax tree is primarily cultivated for the wax from its berries (see Japan wax) and for its sap which forms a natural lacquer (see urushi).

Synonyms and Related Terms

haze (Jap.); Rhus succedanea

Resources and Citations

• R.Feller, M.Curran, C.Bailie, 'Identification of Traditional Organic Colorants Employed in Japanese Prints and Determination of their Rates of Fading', Japanese Woodblock Prints, Allen Memorial Art Museum, Oberlin College, Oberlin, 1984

• Encyclopedia Britannica, http://www.britannica.com Comment: "Rhus" [Accessed March 5, 2002].