Natsume (Japanese tea caddy) in lacquer and gold, decorated with a landscape of waterfalls and pine trees

This natsume (a container for holding matcha powder during the Japanese tea ceremony), crafted between the late Meiji and Taishō periods, features an exquisitely detailed landscape design covering its entire surface. A waterfall, pine trees, undergrowth, and flowering trees unfold on a wooden base covered in black urushi lacquer, with a subtle interplay between the lacquered and fully decorated areas. The precision of the lines and the contrast between gold and silver lend this antique piece a restrained and refined elegance.

Decor and techniques
The decoration is executed in the maki-e tradition of gold powder decoration, combining several techniques. The general lines of the landscape are rendered in low relief, while the volumes of the pine trees and other elements are treated in high relief (taka maki-e), with extremely fine depictions of the foliage and details. The blossoms of the trees are adorned with small additions of silver (gin kirikane), which create a delicate contrast with the gold background. In the undergrowth areas, small squares of gold (kirikane) are applied to enrich the textures. The waterfall is rendered in two tones, gold and silver, enhancing the clarity and depth of the scene. The background alternates between black lacquer dusted with gold and areas that are almost entirely gilded. The interior of the body and lid is entirely finished with a nashiji ground, a dense dusting of very fine gold powder. The piece demonstrates highly skilled craftsmanship, where precision, variations in texture, and the layering of techniques lend the landscape a rich visual quality. The pine trees (matsu), a motif associated with longevity, contribute to the timeless character of the composition.

Form and use
This piece is a hira-natsume, low and wide in shape, a natsume used during the tea ceremony for serving koicha (thick tea).

Presentation
This unique piece dates from the late Meiji era (1868-1912) / early Taishō era (1912-1926) and comes with its protective paulownia wood case (kiribako) tied with a cord (sanadahimo). It also includes a custom-made textile pouch (shifuku) designed to protect the natsume during storage and transport as part of the chanoyu ritual.

Place of manufacture
Japan

Dimensions
Diameter 8 cm – Height 5 cm

Weight
Natsume alone: ​​76 g
Natsume with boxes: 214 g

Materials
Wood, Japanese urushi lacquer, maki-e gold powder decoration, silver (gin kirikane), gold (kirikane)

Condition
Very good condition. Wear consistent with age and use.