Natsume In Lacquer Decorated With Samurai Helmet

Japanese Lacquer (Urushi) Natsume (Tea Caddy) with Samurai Helmet (Kabuto) Decoration

• Period: Showa period (1926–1989), mid-20th century

• Origin: Japan

• Materials: Turned wood, natural lacquer (urushi), gold powder (maki-e)

• Dimensions: * Height: 7.5 cm

  • Diameter: 6.8 cm

• Shape and Structure: Cylindrical tea caddy of classic natsume form (evoking the jujube fruit), crafted from lightweight turned wood. The lid fits seamlessly and airtight over the lip of the body, ensuring the necessary preservation of the matcha.

• Exterior: Deep black lacquer (kuro-urushi) background with a mirror-polished finish. The top of the lid features a gold lacquer (maki-e) decoration with vermilion pigment highlights, depicting a warrior's helmet (kabuto). The helmet cords (shinobi-no-o) drape asymmetrically, flowing elegantly down the sides of the lid.

• Interior: Fully coated in a vibrant, flawless vermilion red lacquer (shunuri). This treatment creates the traditional, striking chromatic contrast sought after when opening the vessel during the Chanoyu (tea ceremony) ritual.

• Condition: Outstanding original condition. The lacquer is perfectly preserved, free of any chips, edge wear, or micro-cracking.

• Original Box (Tomobako): Presented in its original paulownia wood box (kiri-bako), traditionally used for its excellent moisture-regulating properties. The lid features a black ink calligraphy identifying the piece.

• Accessories: Complete with its original two-tone braided cotton cords and the traditional yellow cotton wrapping cloth (ukon-buno), used to protect the natsume inside the box.