Natsume (Japanese tea caddy) in lacquer and gold, decorated with tsuta (ivy) by Sōkaku Murata

This natsume (a container for matcha powder used in the Japanese tea ceremony) by Sōkaku Murata is part of the grand tradition of Japanese urushi lacquerware applied to chanoyu (tea) utensils. Against a deep black background, a plant motif crafted with gold powder of remarkable brilliance unfolds broadly, covering much of the surface. The quality of execution, the precision of the design, and the contrast between the gilded surfaces and the black lacquer give this piece a very strong presence.

The Artisan
This natsume was made by Sōkaku Murata, a lacquer artist born in 1953 in Yamanaka, Ishikawa Prefecture, a region associated with the Yamanaka nuri (Yamanaka lacquerware) tradition and the lacquer arts of Kaga. After initial training with his father, he studied maki-e (gold powder decoration) with master Masanori Omote, before establishing himself as an independent artisan in 1980. His recognized and appreciated work is primarily dedicated to tea utensils.

Decoration and Techniques
The decoration is executed in maki-e, combining hiramaki-e (flat decoration) for the large metallic surfaces and taka maki-e (relief decoration) for certain floral elements.

The main leaves are rendered in particularly extensive gold solid areas, covering large portions of the natsume with remarkable density. These visually prominent gilded surfaces structure the entire decoration, while silver accents introduce cooler nuances and provide subtle contrast.

The background is glossy black lacquer, creating a stark contrast with the metallic motifs. The decoration unfolds continuously over the lid and body of the natsume, following a comprehensive composition characteristic of this repertoire.

The interior is black lacquer, with edges finished in fundame (matte gold), applied as a border on the rim of the lid and the body.

The tsuta (ivy) motif, here combined with floral elements, belongs to a classic chanoyu (tea) repertoire. It is executed according to a codified maki-e composition, stemming from a refined classical taste inherited from the aristocratic repertoire.

Shape and Use
This ōnatsume (large natsume) is intended for serving usucha (light tea) in the Japanese tea ceremony.

Presentation
This piece is presented with its tomobako (original wooden box) bearing the name of the work, the artisan's signature and seal, fastened with a sanadahimo (cord). It also comes with a tomonuno (protective cloth) bearing the artist's seal.

Place of Manufacture
Japan, Yamanaka, Ishikawa Prefecture

Period
Heisei Era (1989 - 2019)

Dimensions
Diameter 7.3 cm - Height 7.5 cm

Weight
Natsume alone: 66 g
Natsume with boxes: 175 g

Materials
Wood, urushi lacquer, gold and silver powders

Condition
Very good condition.