Natsume (Japanese tea caddy) lacquered and gilded, decorated with the Godai-dō at Matsushima by Kōshitsu Katō

This natsume (box in which matcha powder is placed during the Japanese tea ceremony) by Kōshitsu Katō, a Kyoto lacquerer, features a remarkable Matsushima landscape made with urushi lacquer and maki-e (gold powder decoration). The Godai-dō pavilion, its bridges, and the rocky islets covered with pine trees unfold against a nashiji (sprinkled gold) background with particularly subtle variations. The richness of the composition and the delicacy of the lacquer work give this antique piece a rare presence.

The artisan
Kōshitsu Katō, also known by the signature Heian Kōshitsu (the name appearing on the tomobako, a reference to Heian-kyō, the ancient name of Kyoto), was a Kyoto lacquerer active in the mid- and latter half of the 20th century (Shōwa era).

Specializing in lacquerware for chanoyu (the tea ceremony), his work demonstrates mastery of various Japanese urushi lacquer techniques. Several of his creations are associated with important figures of the Urasenke school, notably Hōunsai and Iguchi Kaisen, testifying to the presence of his work in chanoyu circles.

Decor and techniques
The decoration depicts Matsushima, in Miyagi Prefecture, one of Japan's most famous landscapes. It is mainly executed in taka maki-e (raised gold powder decoration), particularly prominent in the treatment of the rocky islets. The pine trees, bridges, water lines, and the architecture of the Godai-dō are rendered with great finesse.

On the top appears the Godai-dō, a small temple built on one of Matsushima's islets and connected to the neighboring land by a succession of bridges. This pavilion, which in its current form dates from 1604, is classified as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The pine trees covering the rocks, the stylized lines of the water, and the suspended bridges between the islets allow for immediate identification of the bay's characteristic landscape.

The outer background is treated with nashiji (sprinkled gold) with varying density. Very dense towards the lower part, it gradually becomes lighter before strengthening again on the lid. This play of powdering is an interesting element of the composition: it creates luminous transitions and adds depth to the landscape. The inside of the lid and the bowl are entirely covered with dense and luminous nashiji.

Matsushima holds a major place in Japanese culture. Celebrated since the Heian period as an utamakura (famous place associated with classical poetry), the site has become one of the Nihon Sankei (Three Views of Japan), along with Miyajima and Amanohashidate. Matsuo Bashō also celebrates it in his Oku no hosomichi (The Narrow Road to the Deep North), an account of his great journey through northern Japan undertaken in the late 17th century and which became one of the major works of Japanese literature. The choice of Matsushima thus places this natsume within a long literary and pictorial tradition dedicated to this landscape.

Form and use
This large hira natsume (low natsume) is used in the tea ceremony to hold matcha powder for the preparation of usucha (light tea).

Presentation
This piece comes with its tomobako (protective wooden box) bearing the name of the work, the artisan's signature, and seal. The box is closed with a sanadahimo (cord).

Place of manufacture
Japan, Kyoto

Period
Shōwa era (1926-1989)

Dimensions
Diameter 8.4 cm - Height 6 cm

Weight
Natsume alone: 81 g
Natsume with boxes: 234 g

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

Condition
Very good condition with a slight patina consistent with age and use.