Natsume (tea caddy) lacquer and gold, inasuzume (rice and sparrows) decoration by Ichigo Itchō
A magnificent piece by Ichigo Itchō (1998-1991), one of the most renowned masters of lacquer art, this natsume is handcrafted using traditional Wajima urushi lacquer techniques, with a beautiful glossy black for the final layers, patiently applied to a very light turned wooden container on which a fabulous decoration of flying sparrows in ears of rice has then been applied.
The maki-e decoration, inlaid with gold powder, is executed in relief with great finesse and detail, around a motif of rice ears and sparrows ( inasuzume ), two essential symbols of Japanese culture. The rice embodies prosperity, sustenance, and the continuity of life. The sparrow, depicted in flight, symbolizes liveliness, joy, and sharing. Together, they form an image of harmonious abundance, evoking gratitude for nature and the beauty of the seasons, especially the autumn harvest. Inside the lid, three sparrows, rendered in raised gold powder maki-e, stand out against the black lacquer.
This natsume was crafted by the renowned lacquer master Ichigo Itchō, a specialist in the art of maki-e, born in 1898 in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan, and who passed away in 1991. A resident of Wajima, he was celebrated for his exceptional creations, particularly his natsume (tea caddies), and received numerous awards, including several selections at the prestigious Nitten Art Fair. His natsume are highly sought after in the art market.
This is a unique piece dating from the Shōwa era (1926-1989). The artist's signature is engraved at the base of the natsume, which comes with a protective paulownia wood (kiribako) box that closes with a sanadahimo cord. The box bears the artist's name and official seal, guaranteeing its authenticity, and also includes two informational documents (shiori) detailing the artist's background . A white silk textile, bearing the artist's seal and signature, is also included.
It is also worth noting the presence of an official invoice dating from 1960 (the black felt-tip pen mark likely corresponds to the buyer's name) specifying the price at which this natsume was purchased ( ¥500,000), which indicates the preciousness of this superb piece (in today's market value, this amount is equivalent to over €10,000). Natsume of this quality frequently sell for several thousand euros in Japanese galleries today.
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Diameter 7.2cm - Height 7.2cm. |
| WEIGHT | Natsume alone: 61g; Natsume + elements + box: 182g |
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| STATE | In 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 >
Your invoice will be sent by email
Payment methods
By card (Stripe operator): Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express.
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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.