"Natsume Lacquered Japanese Tea Caddy With Daffodil Design - Japan"
A matcha tea caddy, or natsume, for the Japanese tea ceremony. Made of black lacquered wood decorated with daffodils ("suisen" in Japanese, which is the title of this piece) in gold makie lacquer and mother-of-pearl inlays. In Japan, the daffodil symbolizes respect, nobility, and renewal; it evokes the promise of spring and hope in the face of the cold months. For the tea ceremony, the tea master chooses objects according to the seasons, guests, and events. This natsume relates to the winter season. Artist: Munehiko. Japan, circa 1990, 8.5 x 5.5 cm. With its original box signed by the artist. 
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