"Natsume, Lacquered Japanese Tea Caddy, Pine Trees And Gingerbread Men - Japan"
A natsume tea caddy, used for matcha tea in the tea ceremony. Made of black lacquered wood decorated with pine trees above waves in gold makie lacquer. The interior and base are finished in gindame lacquer (very fine silver powder mixed with lacquer to give the impression of metal). For the tea ceremony, the tea master chooses his objects according to the seasons, guests, events, etc. A unique piece crafted with exceptional skill. Artist: Jyotaro Goto, Japan, circa 1970, 7.7 x 7.3 cm. With its original box signed by the artist.