Bachiru originated in Tang dynasty China, and was introduced to Japan in the 8th century C.E.
[1] The ivory pieces to be decorated are first stained with pigment (usually red, green or blue).
Ivory does not take colour easily and has to be put through a process of repeated boiling and soaking in dye in order to achieve the appropriate hue.
[2] The art of bachiru was largely lost until its rediscovery in the 20th century by Yoshida Fumiyuki (1915-2004).
[2] Yoshida was recognised as a Living National Treasure for his work with this art medium.