Vintage Japanese Black Lacquer Usuki w/ Gold Maki-e Plum Blossoms Motif Chaki

Vintage Japanese Kuro Urushi Usuki Natsume with Gold Maki-e Plum Blossoms

A vintage Japanese usuki (thin tea container) natsume of short, wide form, finished in deep kuro urushi (black lacquer). The exterior surface is opaque black with a smooth, glossy finish, showing no visible wood grain. The proportions emphasize width over height, giving the piece a grounded and stable presence.

The exterior is decorated with restrained gold maki-e depicting plum blossoms (ume). One blossom incorporates a small raden (mother-of-pearl) inlay, introducing a subtle iridescent accent within the otherwise gold decoration. The design is spaced and deliberate, allowing the black lacquer ground to remain dominant.

The lid is lift-off with a clean, even seam line. The underside of the lid is finished in red lacquer, creating a traditional black-and-red contrast. The interior is smoothly finished and clean, suitable for tea use. No signatures or inscriptions are visible.

Condition is consistent with age, showing light surface wear and minor handling marks expected of an antique lacquer tea utensil. The maki-e decoration remains clear and intact, and the raden inlay is securely set with no visible losses. A well-balanced and visually refined example appropriate for tea practice, display, or collection.