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. A light wooden container entirely covered in deep black Japanese urushi lacquer features a lavish gold-powdered decoration depicting cranes in flight over the Wakaura shore. The delicacy of the design and the mastery of the powdering give this work a superb brilliance and rare elegance.

Decor and techniques
The decoration, created according to the tradition of Japanese maki-e using gold powder, combines hiramaki-e (flat gold lacquer) for the lines of the landscape and taka maki-e (embossed gold lacquer) for the modeling of the cranes. The background combines several effects of nashiji (sprinkled gold) and hirame (gold flakes), creating subtle transitions between shadow and light. The interior, lid and cup, are also treated in nashiji, using several techniques. The motif of the cranes, a symbol of longevity and good omen, flies over the shore of Wakaura ( Wakayama Prefecture), a poetic place celebrated in classical Japanese literature. The ensemble is distinguished by the mastery of gesture, the richness of nuances and the exceptional quality of the decor.

Form and use
This hira-natsume, whose shape recalls the box for go stones, is traditionally used during the tea ceremony for koicha, thick tea. Its balanced proportions and the sobriety of its line reinforce the elegance of the decor and the overall harmony.

The craftsman
This natsume was created by the artisan Ikkō Kiyose, born in 1942 in Kanazawa, a master lacquerer renowned for his mastery of maki-e. Heir to a 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 on the art market). His works are highly sought after on the art market and in the world of chanoyu (the tea ceremony).

Authenticity and presentation
This unique piece dates from the Heisei era (1989–2019). It is presented in a nijū-bako (double casing): a black lacquered box closed with a sanadahimo (cord), then a paulownia wood box (kiribako) bearing the name of the work, the signature and the seal of the artisan, also closed with 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