Japanese O-Natsume Tea Caddy Four Seasons Flowers by Shunsan #5522

width: approx. 7.7cm (3.0in)
height: approx. 8.0cm (3.1in)
wight: approx. 79g (w/ box 170g)
condition: Good condition. Long-term storage with minimal signs of use.
Accessories: Original wooden box (Tomobako) with artist's signature and seal.
Shipping: Shipped from Japan with a tracking number. We take great care in professional packaging to ensure the item arrives safely.

This is an exceptional Japanese O-Natsume (Large Tea Caddy) featuring a breathtaking Four Seasons Flowers design, meticulously hand-painted by the renowned lacquer artist Shunsan. This piece represents the pinnacle of Kyoto-style lacquerware, combining luxurious aesthetics with the spiritual depth of the Tea Ceremony (Chado).

The design is a masterpiece of Maki-e (gold lacquer decoration). The lid features a magnificent Peony, known as the "King of Flowers," while the sides are adorned with a continuous flow of seasonal motifs including Chrysanthemums, Japanese Bellflowers, and Narcissus. The artist has skillfully used different shades of gold and subtle silver accents to create a three-dimensional effect, bringing a vivid "scenery" to the deep black Urushi surface.

For collectors, the technical precision in the delicate lines of the leaves and the rhythmic arrangement of the petals is a testament to traditional Japanese craftsmanship. The interior is finished in a flawless, mirror-like black lacquer, showing no signs of significant wear, which is a key point for discerning buyers.

A "Four Seasons" motif is highly valued in the tea world as it allows for versatile use throughout the year. This Natsume comes with its original Tomobako (authenticated wooden box), which is essential for preserving its provenance and value. It is not only a functional tool for serving Matcha but also a stunning work of art that embodies the Japanese aesthetic of finding the universe within a single vessel.