Natsume (Japanese tea caddy) lacquer and gold, decorated with Wakaura cranes by Ikkō Kiyose
This natsume by Ikkō Kiyose, a highly regarded lacquer master from Kanazawa, is an exceptional piece. On a lightweight wooden container entirely covered in deep black Japanese urushi lacquer, a lavish decoration of cranes in flight over the Wakaura shoreline is displayed, rendered in gold powder. The delicacy of the design and the masterful application of the powder give this work a superb brilliance and rare elegance.
Decor and techniques
The decoration, executed according to the Japanese maki-e tradition with gold powder, combines hiramaki-e (flat gold lacquer) for the landscape lines and taka maki-e (relief gold lacquer) for the modeling of the cranes. The background combines several effects of nashiji (sprinkled gold) and hirame (gold glitter), creating subtle transitions between shadow and light. The interior, lid and cup, is also treated with nashiji, using several techniques. The motif of the cranes, a symbol of longevity and good fortune, flies over the shore of Wakaura ( Wakayama Prefecture), a poetic place celebrated in classical Japanese literature. The ensemble is distinguished by the mastery of technique, the richness of nuances, and the exceptional quality of the decoration.
Form and use
This hira-natsume, whose shape is reminiscent of a go stone box, is traditionally used in the tea ceremony for koicha, a thick tea. Its balanced proportions and simple lines enhance the elegance of the setting and the overall harmony.
The craftsman
This natsume was crafted by the artist Ikkō Kiyose, born in 1942 in Kanazawa, a master lacquerer renowned for his mastery of maki-e. Heir to a long line of artisans, he succeeded his father in 1986 and was designated a traditional craftsman in 1995 (an official recognition guaranteeing expertise, authenticity, prestige, and value in the art market). His works are highly sought after in the art market and within the world of chanoyu (the tea ceremony).
Presentation
This unique piece dates from the Heisei era (1989–2019). It is presented in nijū-bako (double box): a black lacquered box closed by a sanadahimo (cord), then a paulownia wood box (kiribako) bearing the name of the work, the signature and the seal of the craftsman, also closed by a sanadahimo as well as a protective cloth (tomonuno) bearing the seal of the artist, all guaranteeing its authenticity.
Place of manufacture
Japan (Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture)
Dimensions
Inner diameter 7.5 cm – Height 5.5 cm
Weight
Natsume alone: 71 g
Natsume with boxes: 519 g
Materials
Wood, Japanese urushi lacquer, maki-e (gold powder)
State
Very good condition
KNOW-HOW
Natsume (棗) are small boxes with few variations in shape and dimensions (which are codified), and which are made of Japanese urushi lacquer, welcoming the matcha tea powder during the traditional Japanese tea ceremony (chanoyu and sadō). They are magnificent objects that can be used for tea or superb decorative pieces to collect and to position individually or grouped on a pretty tray or in a display case. Modern productions are more often made of resin and not lacquer, and of molded wood powder or plastic. We only offer authentic traditional natsume in real Japanese urushi lacquer made according to the rules of the art. These objects are rare and precious, they are likely to increase in value. Read our article on natsume >
Traditional Japanese lacquer, urushi, comes from the sap of the lacquer tree (Rhus Verniciflua), which flows after incision of the bark. It is a very precious material, a tree will give a maximum of 200ml of sap in its life, which is worked by specialized craftsmen. It takes many operations, slow and meticulous, and several months of work to bring real lacquer objects to life. It is the oldest craft in Japan! Initially used to protect and waterproof objects, this immutable craft has become an art of extreme sophistication. If you want to know more about the art of Japanese lacquer, you can read our dedicated article > .
DELIVERY
Delivery
Free delivery in mainland France for purchases over €200. Orders are generally dispatched within 2 working days, except in special cases, as indicated in the banner at the top of the website.
Precious items are wrapped in beautiful fabric, beautifully knotted according to the precious Korean art of pojagi. Some exceptions apply, especially if the items are large. Learn more >
Detailed delivery information is available via this link >
Your invoice will be sent by email
Payment methods
By card (Stripe operator): Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express.
Secure card payment with 3D Secure.
By PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay and Shop Pay
Returns and exchanges
14 days to change your mind.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS
Clean with a very soft cloth to avoid scratches, soaked in a little warm water if necessary (never soak your lacquer objects). No microwave, dishwasher, dryer. Do not expose to direct sunlight for a long time (risk of discoloration). If the atmosphere is very dry and very hot, and to avoid the risk of cracking, you can place a glass filled with water next to your lacquer object.
Choose options
The art of wrapping
The exceptional items are wrapped in a beautiful fabric beautifully knotted using the little-known art of Korean pojagi and decorated with a delightful maedup (Korean ornamental knot). Details and conditions >
WRAPPING
Precious objects are wrapped in textiles tied using the Korean art of pojagi.