Vintage Japanese Lacquer Tea Caddy Natsume Maki-e Bamboo Plum Pine w/ Box

Vintage Japanese Lacquer Tea Caddy Natsume Maki-e Bamboo Plum Pine

Gold maki-e natsume with auspicious shōchikubai motifs

Japan, mid–20th century
Dimensions: approx. 2.9″W × 3.0″H (7.5 × 7.6 cm)

This Japanese tea ceremony natsume is finished in deep black kuro-urushi lacquer and decorated in gold maki-e with flowing vinework and classic shōchikubai imagery. Pine needles, bamboo leaves, and plum blossoms appear in repeating roundels around the body, forming a balanced design associated with longevity, resilience, and good fortune in the tea tradition.

The lid is centered with a radiating geometric medallion that provides a visual counterpoint to the organic movement of the vines below. The rounded form sits comfortably in the hand and reflects the understated elegance favored in mid-century tea utensils. The interior is smoothly finished for practical use.

The original wooden storage box is inscribed 松竹梅蒔絵棗 (“Shōchikubai Maki-e Natsume”), confirming both the motif and intended function. A refined example of traditional Japanese lacquer suitable for tea ceremony use or display within a lacquer or tea-wares collection.