Natsume, Japanese Lacquered Tea Caddy, Shinobu - Japan

A masterpiece in which thousands of delicate engraved lines bloom in shimmering gold.

Tea caddy (natsume) for matcha tea used in the tea ceremony.

Made of deep black lacquered wood with shinobu fern motifs in chinkin lacquer.
The traditional Japanese chinkin technique involves engraving patterns into the lacquer and inlaying them with gold.
This technique allows the motifs to catch the light differently and adds depth.
Upon closer inspection, the extraordinary craftsmanship becomes apparent. Each leaf is composed of countless hand-engraved lines, demonstrating remarkable precision and patience.

For the tea ceremony, the tea master selects his utensils according to the seasons, guests, and events...

In Japan, the Shinobu fern is inextricably linked to summer. Since the Edo period, artisans have been creating Tsurishinobu, compositions of ferns mounted on suspended balls of moss. 

This natsume therefore evokes the summer season.

Artist: Geppô
Japan, 7.9 x 6.3 cm.

Comes with its original box signed by the artist.