Vintage Japanese Tea Ceremony Natsume Tea Caddy Red Lacquer Wood

This is a vintage Japanese natsume or tea caddy used in the chanoyu tea ceremony. It is used to hold the powdered green tea called matcha. A quality natsume such as this is made of turn wood, typically hinoki or Japanese cypress. The wood is lacquered in the traditional Japanese method with over 20 coats of urushi lacquer. This particular lacquer is a traditional bright red color. Decorated in gold makie with sakura cherry blossoms maple leaves. This is a beautiful example of Japanese lacquerware.

Having been only very sparingly and lovingly used for decades this natsume remains in fine condition with just a few mark on the back as seen in the photos. The tea caddy is perhaps the most quintessential shape and size for natsume and measures approximately 2 1/2" in diameter by 2 1/2" tall (6.5 x 6.5 cm). A very elegant and functional piece of art to hold your favorite tea or some other treasures.