Japanese Lacquer Natsume with Willow Makie by Shusai, 20C #5319 for sale

Up for sale is this "Japanese Lacquer Natsume with Willow Makie by Shusai, 20C #5319" If you have any questions please contact us before buy it. No reserve.

width: approx. 7cm (2.76in)
height: approx. 7cm (2.76in)
weight: 57g (w/ box 157g)

This lacquer natsume (tea caddy) by the distinguished maki-e artist Shusai, dating to the 20th century, is an exceptional example of Japanese lacquer artistry that harmonizes visual poetry with technical mastery. The piece is adorned with an intricate weeping willow motif, rendered entirely in gold maki-e against a lustrous black lacquer ground. The flowing branches and delicate leaves extend seamlessly across the lid and body, creating a unified and dynamic composition that evokes the tranquil elegance of nature in motion. Notably, the leaves are crafted with a combination of takamaki-e (raised maki-e) and togidashi maki-e (polished maki-e), producing a three-dimensional effect that glimmers subtly as the viewer changes perspective. Each individual frond is executed with microscopic precision, showcasing Shusai’s command of traditional techniques and his refined aesthetic sensibility. The interior is finished with a deep black lacquer, and the foot ring is flawlessly formed. Accompanied by its original signed wooden box (tomobako), this natsume is preserved in excellent condition and stands as a testament to the enduring beauty and sophistication of Japanese lacquerware. Ideal for both ceremonial use and display, it is a superb collector’s piece.

Nakatani Shūsai
Nakatani Shūsai is a renowned Japanese lacquer artist (makie-shi) from Yamanaka in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan. Born in 1931, he began his training in traditional lacquerware under the guidance of his father. In the early 1950s, he traveled to Kyoto to study ikkan-nuri, a traditional technique that involves layering paper on wood and applying lacquer, which further refined his technical foundation.

After returning to his hometown, Nakatani dedicated his life to producing tea utensils, particularly natsume (tea caddies) and other ceremonial lacquerware. His work is distinguished by refined makie techniques, often incorporating classical motifs such as irises, waves, pines, or seasonal elements, rendered in gold and silver powder, and sometimes inlaid with shell (raden) or lead (namamigaki). His designs show a balance between elegance and visual dynamism, suitable for the contemplative aesthetics of the Japanese tea ceremony.

Throughout his career, he has participated in local and national exhibitions and received recognition for preserving and innovating within the Yamanaka lacquerware tradition. His works are sought after by tea practitioners and collectors alike, admired for their harmony of functionality, artistry, and classical beauty.

 

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