In addition, the use of the wood of the deigo tree is one of the unique characteristics of Ryukyuan lacquerware.
Formal tributary relations with China began in 1372, and in 1427, the Xuande Emperor famously bestowed upon Hashi, King of Ryukyu, the honorary family name Shō (Shang), along with a lacquer tablet inscribed with the characters for Chūzan, and a number of other lavish gifts, including lacquerwares and formal court robes.
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For roughly five hundred years, from 1372 until the mid-19th century, a small number of Ryukyuans resided in Fuzhou and Beijing at any given time, studying academic classics and various arts as well.
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The community of scholars in Kumemura, on Okinawa, also included a number of skilled artists and craftsmen.