Japanese Yamanaka Lacquerware Chinkin "Shinobu" Pattern Natsume by Seki Suiun #5346

width: approx. 6.8cm (2 43⁄64in)
height: approx. 7.1cm (2 51⁄64in)
weight: 59g (w/ box 139g)

This refined natsume (tea caddy) was crafted in the traditional Yamanaka lacquerware style by Seki Suiun, a master chinkin artist born in 1938 and officially recognized as a Traditional Craftsman in 1995. The piece features an all-over "Shinobu" (fern) motif, executed in exquisite chinkin technique—wherein delicate carvings are filled with gold to form intricate decorative patterns. The fern-like design radiates from the center, symbolizing quiet strength and the beauty of nature. The polished black lacquer interior enhances its functional elegance, while the exterior displays a masterful balance of form and ornament. Measuring approximately 6.8 cm in diameter and 7.1 cm in height, this caddy comes with its original signed wooden box. It remains in outstanding condition, with its lacquer surface and gold detailing beautifully preserved. A superb example of modern Japanese lacquerware, this piece embodies both practical utility and high aesthetic value.

Yamanaka Ware
Yamanaka lacquerware, also known as Yamanaka-shikki, is a traditional craft produced in the Yamanaka Onsen district of Kaga City, Ishikawa Prefecture—an area with over 1,300 years of hot spring history. Recognized as one of the three major lacquerware production centers in Ishikawa, alongside Wajima (famed for its lacquer coating) and Kanazawa (renowned for maki-e decoration), Yamanaka is celebrated for its exceptional woodturning craftsmanship.

The region has long been home to kijishi—woodturning artisans who use lathes to shape and produce wooden wares such as bowls and trays. Yamanaka boasts the highest production volume of hikimono in Japan, items made by spinning wood on a lathe and carving it with blades to form both functional and decorative objects.

A defining feature of Yamanaka lacquerware is the tatekidori technique, in which the grain of the wood runs vertically in line with the shape of the object. This method reduces warping during drying, resulting in highly durable pieces. It allows for intricate creations such as finely turned vessels and lidded containers. Furthermore, decorative lathe techniques like sensuji (fine lines) and arasuji (coarser grooves) are employed to enhance the surface, giving Yamanaka lacquerware its distinctive character and meticulously refined beauty.