Japanese Lacquer Tea Caddy Natsume with Vine Motif #5468

width: approx. 6.7cm (2.64in)
height: approx. 6.5cm (2.56in)
maker: Shiko
weight: 48g (w/box 140g)

This is a Japanese lacquer tea caddy known as a natsume, featuring an elegant vine and leaf motif rendered in gold against a deep black lacquer ground. The softly rounded form and seamless lid-and-body construction reflect the functional beauty required for holding matcha powder in the tea ceremony. Flowing vines and leaves wrap around the surface, expressing a refined sense of Japanese aesthetics inspired by nature. Suitable for use in traditional tea practice, this lacquer natsume also serves as a fine example of Japanese craftsmanship and decorative arts, appealing to collectors of Japanese tea ceremony utensils and lacquerware worldwide.

Born in 1956.

In 1971, entered the Woodcraft Department (Maki-e course) at Wajima Jitsugyo High School, Ishikawa Prefecture.

After graduating from Wajima Jitsugyo High School in 1974, he became an apprentice to the maki-e master Bunzaburō Muraki in Kawai-machi, Wajima City.

After studying maki-e under Master Muraki for approximately six years, he became independent in 1980.

In 1980, he received the Grand Prize at the Traditional Crafts Wajima Lacquerware Exhibition.
He was also awarded the Chairman’s Prize of the Wajima Lacquerware Technical Preservation Association and the Chairman’s Prize of the Maki-e Guild.

In 1983, at the Traditional Crafts Wajima Lacquerware Exhibition, he received the Wajima City Council Chairman’s Prize.