Natsume (Japanese tea caddy) in lacquer and gold, decorated with ginkgo leaves by Ooshita Hiroyuki
This natsume (box in which matcha powder is placed during the Japanese tea ceremony) by Ooshita Hiroyuki is an ōnatsume (large natsume) of remarkable execution, created by a renowned contemporary lacquer artist from Kanazawa. Against a background of Japanese urushi lacquer, a design of ginkgo leaves in gold powder unfolds, treated with a wealth of techniques and exceptional precision. The contrast between the flat gold areas, the nashiji backgrounds, and the depth of the black gives the whole a strong presence and perfectly mastered elegance, characteristic of high-level pieces intended for chanoyu.
The artist
This natsume was created by Ooshita Hiroyuki, a contemporary lacquer artist from Kanazawa, specializing in maki-e decorations. Recognized as a dentō kōgeishi (traditional craftsman) of Kanazawa shikki (Kanazawa lacquerware) in the kashoku (decoration) section, this distinction attests to a high level of mastery in Japanese lacquer techniques. His work is characterized by great precision of execution and particular attention to the balance of compositions. He continues the traditions of Kanazawa lacquerware, while developing works of great finesse, particularly appreciated in the field of chanoyu.
Decoration and techniques
The decoration combines hiramaki-e (flat design), togidashi maki-e (polished flush pattern), kirikane (cut gold leaf), and several nashiji (gold powder background) treatments. The large ginkgo leaves unfurl on the natsume in a fluid and elegant composition. Some leaves feature very smooth flat gold areas, while others are enriched with very fine details and geometric kirikane elements, providing a great richness of surface. The black background is animated by a very light and dispersed gold powdering in the upper part, while the lower part features a denser nashiji, forming rich and luminous areas. The interior is also treated with nashiji, with a marked presence of gold powder. The ginkgo motif, associated with autumn in Japanese arts, is appreciated for the elegance of its fan shape and the graphic quality of its leaves.
Shape and use
This ōnatsume (large natsume) is used for usucha (light tea) during the Japanese tea ceremony.
Presentation
This piece is presented with a signed tomobako (wooden box), bearing the name of the work and the artist's seal, as well as a protective cloth (tomonuno) bearing the artist's seal.
Place of manufacture
Japan, Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture
Period
Heisei era (1989-2019)
Dimensions
Diameter 7.3 cm - Height 7.3 cm
Weight
Natsume alone: 68 g
Natsume with boxes: 193 g
Materials
Wood, urushi lacquer, gold powders
Condition
Very good condition
KNOW-HOW
Natsume (棗) are small boxes with few variations in shape and dimensions (which are codified), and which are made of Japanese urushi lacquer, welcoming the matcha tea powder during the traditional Japanese tea ceremony (chanoyu and sadō). They are magnificent objects that can be used for tea or superb decorative pieces to collect and to position individually or grouped on a pretty tray or in a display case. Modern productions are more often made of resin and not lacquer, and of molded wood powder or plastic. We only offer authentic traditional natsume in real Japanese urushi lacquer made according to the rules of the art. These objects are rare and precious, they are likely to increase in value. Read our article on natsume >
Traditional Japanese lacquer, urushi, comes from the sap of the lacquer tree (Rhus Verniciflua), which flows after incision of the bark. It is a very precious material, a tree will give a maximum of 200ml of sap in its life, which is worked by specialized craftsmen. It takes many operations, slow and meticulous, and several months of work to bring real lacquer objects to life. It is the oldest craft in Japan! Initially used to protect and waterproof objects, this immutable craft has become an art of extreme sophistication. If you want to know more about the art of Japanese lacquer, you can read our dedicated article > .
DELIVERY
Delivery
Free delivery in mainland France for purchases over €200. Orders are generally dispatched within 2 working days, except in special cases, as indicated in the banner at the top of the website.
Precious items are wrapped in beautiful fabric, beautifully knotted according to the precious Korean art of pojagi. Some exceptions apply, especially if the items are large. Learn more >
Detailed delivery information is available via this link >
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Payment methods
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Returns and exchanges
14 days to change your mind.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS
Clean with a very soft cloth to avoid scratches, soaked in a little warm water if necessary (never soak your lacquer objects). No microwave, dishwasher, dryer. Do not expose to direct sunlight for a long time (risk of discoloration). If the atmosphere is very dry and very hot, and to avoid the risk of cracking, you can place a glass filled with water next to your lacquer object.
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The art of wrapping
The exceptional items are wrapped in a beautiful fabric beautifully knotted using the little-known art of Korean pojagi and decorated with a delightful maedup (Korean ornamental knot). Details and conditions >
WRAPPING
Precious objects are wrapped in textiles tied using the Korean art of pojagi.