Antique Japanese Autumn Grass Maki-e Natsume Tea Caddy #5498

width: approx. 5.6 cm (2.20 in)
height: approx. 5.7 cm (2.24 in)
weight: 47g (w/box 113g)

This is a natsume tea caddy decorated all over with an autumn grass motif rendered in gradations of gold against a deep lacquer ground. The composition is especially elegant, with the design continuing seamlessly from the lid to the body, while flowing lines layered among the clusters of grasses and flowers create a quiet sense of movement and lingering atmosphere across the surface. The outlines of the leaves and blossoms, the fine stippling, and the overlapping delicate lines reveal the refined ornamental quality distinctive to maki-e, and the motif rises softly into view each time it catches the light. In a tea setting, it adds depth to a seasonal arrangement, while on a display shelf or in a collection it offers an opportunity to appreciate the compositional beauty of lacquer art. The decoration extending across both lid and body conveys a craft value found in the continuity of the design itself.