Natsume (Japanese tea caddy) in lacquer and gold, decorated with matsu (pine trees) and chidori (plunder trees) by Ikkō Kiyose

This natsume (the tin in which matcha powder is placed during the Japanese tea ceremony), signed by Ikkō Kiyose, a highly renowned lacquer master from Kanazawa, is a remarkable work. On a hira-natsume form, a sumptuous decoration of pine trees ( matsu , longevity) and plovers ( chidori, perseverance) unfolds, executed with exceptional precision in gold powder. The background is further enhanced by a very fine scattering of gold, adding an extra brilliance to the black lacquer. The highly precise design, the delicate reliefs, and the absolute mastery of the powdering give this piece a rare presence, revealing the full expertise of a leading figure in Japanese maki-e.

Decor and techniques
The decoration, executed according to the Japanese maki-e tradition with gold powder, combines a raised design ( taka maki-e ) for the pine trees and chidori birds, and a flat design ( hiramaki-e ) for certain transitions within the motif. The outer background is treated with sunago maki-e (very fine sprinkling of gold powder), of exceptional delicacy, lending a luminous vibrancy to the black lacquer. This surface extends towards the base with a progressive accumulation of gold powder in hiramaki-e , forming a flat golden area. The decoration unfolds around the entire natsume, creating a beautiful effect from any angle.

The interior, lid and cup, is finished with nashiji (sprinkle gold), offering a warm and shimmering depth. The piece is distinguished by the masterful craftsmanship, the delicate modeling, and the balance between dark areas and gilded surfaces. The pine motif, a symbol of constancy and longevity, combined with chidori , traditionally associated with endurance in the face of the elements, creates an auspicious ensemble frequently appreciated in chanoyu aesthetics.

Form and use
This low natsume ( hira-natsume ), whose shape resembles a go stone box, is primarily used in tea ceremonies for koicha, thick tea, in certain schools. Its wide and balanced proportions particularly enhance the display of the decoration.

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 comes with a protective box made of paulownia wood ( kiribako ) closed with a cord ( sanadahimo ), bearing the name of the artist, his official seal and the title of the work, as well as a textile pouch ( shifuku ) made to measure for the natsume, an additional sign of its preciousness.

Place of manufacture
Japan (Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture)

Dimensions
Diameter 8.6 cm - Height 6.2 cm

Weight
Natsume alone: ​​81 g
Natsume with boxes: 219 g

Materials
Wood, Japanese urushi lacquer, maki-e (gold powder)

Condition
Very good condition.