Vintage Japanese Lacquer Tea Caddy Natsume with Maple Leaf Maki-e Signed 3"H

茶道 漆芸 Vintage Japanese urushi lacquer tea caddy (natsume) with maki-e maple leaves, signed and boxed

Japan, Shōwa period (c. 1950s–1970s)
Dimensions: 2.75″H × 2.75″W × 2.75″D (7 × 7 × 7 cm)
Weight: >1lbs

A beautifully crafted vintage Japanese natsume (棗) used in the 茶道 chadō tea ceremony for presenting and preparing matcha. Finished in deep black urushi lacquer with a soft, glass-like gloss, the surface is decorated in maki-e sprinkled-gold lacquer and colored pigments depicting momiji (紅葉, maple leaves) in shades of gold and vermillion drifting on a dark field. The form is smoothly rounded and elegant to the touch, with perfect balance in hand.

The maple leaf (楓 / 紅葉) is a beloved motif of autumn, symbolizing beauty, transition, and the deep awareness of seasons central to Japanese aesthetics and the philosophy of 無常 mujō (impermanence). The scattering leaf pattern suggests leaves floating on wind or water, a classical poetic reference frequently found in tea wares from Kyoto and Kanazawa lacquer workshops.

Signed on the bottom of the original kiri wood tomobako, with calligraphy identifying the piece and seal mark of the lacquer artist. Includes the original yellow silk-like cloth wrapping used for ceremonial storage. A refined example of mid-century Japanese lacquerware suitable for both functional tea use and display.

Condition: Excellent vintage condition with light handling wear associated with age. Surfaces are clean and glossy with no cracks, chips, or repairs. Box shows minor age marks consistent with storage.

A graceful work of lacquer artistry with strong traditional motifs—ideal for tea ceremony practitioners, collectors of maki-e, or as an elegant interior accent.