Japanese Willow Ikan-bari O-Natsume Tea Caddy by Takakuwa Senzai #5521

width: approx. 7.1cm (2.8in)
height: approx. 7.2cm (2.8in)
weight: approx. 36g (w/ box 146g)
condition: Very good condition with no noticeable scratches or stains. Accessories: Original wooden box (Tomobako), Original cloth (Kofuku) Shipping: Shipped from Japan with a tracking number. We take care in professional packaging for safe arrival.

This is a masterpiece "O-Natsume" (large tea caddy) by the renowned Kaga lacquer artist, Takakuwa Senzai. It features the "Ikan-bari" technique, where layers of Washi paper are applied to a wooden frame before lacquering, resulting in a unique, organic texture and remarkable lightness. The exterior is decorated with "Mehari-yanagi" (budding willow), a classic motif signifying the arrival of spring and flexibility.

The true highlight of this piece is revealed when the lid is removed: the interior is finished in a vibrant vermilion lacquer adorned with scattered gold leaf (Kin-haku chirashi). This stunning contrast between the understated, matte black exterior and the opulent gold interior is a quintessential example of the Japanese aesthetic of hidden luxury.

During a tea ceremony's "Hai-ken" (viewing), the delicate gold lines of the willow and the brilliant inner glow will captivate guests. This large-sized Natsume is ideal for formal tea gatherings in spacious rooms. As an authentic piece signed by Takakuwa Senzai, it comes with the original Tomobako (signed wooden box) and cloth. This item is perfect for practitioners seeking a seasonal piece for spring or a high-rank utensil for significant ceremonies.

Keywords: Takakuwa Senzai, Ikan-bari Natsume, Japanese Tea Ceremony, Kaga Maki-e, Gold Leaf, Willow Design, Urushi Lacquerware, Antique Tea Caddy.

Takakuwa Senzai

The lineage of Takakuwa Senzai began with the founding of a lacquerware workshop in 1892, dedicated to preserving the rich traditions of Kaga Maki-e. While the first generation established the workshop's foundation through mastery of lacquer coating (Nuri), it was his son, the second generation Senzai, who elevated the craft into the realm of specialized tea utensils.

Takakuwa Senzai II brought a unique perspective to the medium, having studied industrial design at the Kanazawa College of Art before apprenticing under his father. This background allowed him to seamlessly blend contemporary design principles with centuries-old Maki-e techniques. After officially succeeding to the title in 1986, he became renowned for his mastery of complex methods such as Ikan-bari (lacquered paper-on-wood).

Although the workshop ceased operations around the year 2000, his works remain highly coveted today. Due to their limited availability and exceptional craftsmanship, these pieces are held in high regard by tea practitioners and collectors worldwide as quintessential examples of Japanese functional art.