[Vintage] Murakami wood-carved lacquerware: Natsume "Matcha Tea Caddy" with Chrysanthemum Design

*This product is a vintage. It is not a new product, so please be careful if you are looking for a new product.

This natsume "Matcha tea caddy" features an elegant chrysanthemum motif carved in deep relief, glowing softly against the rich red lacquer characteristic of Murakami wood-carved lacquerware.
Originating from Murakami City in Niigata Prefecture, this traditional craft is created through a collaborative process involving wood shaping, hand-drawn design, carving, and careful lacquer application. The interplay of sculptural depth and warm lacquer tones gives each piece a distinctive presence and tactile beauty.

The chrysanthemum motif, long associated with nobility, longevity, and purity in Japanese culture, is rendered here with remarkable precision.
Each petal is carved individually, creating shadows that shift gently with the light. Placed in a tea setting, the piece brings a quiet sense of refinement and calm.

One of the defining qualities of Murakami lacquerware is how it develops a deeper, more lustrous sheen with use.
As the lacquer matures over time, the surface becomes increasingly smooth and radiant, allowing the piece to grow in character and beauty as it accompanies you through the years.

Traditionally, a natsume is used to hold matcha for the tea ceremony.
However, this beautifully crafted container also lends itself naturally to modern living—serving as a refined jewelry box, keepsake container, desk accessory holder, or decorative art object.
Its compact size and warm, hand-carved texture make it a versatile piece that brings a touch of Japanese craftsmanship into any space.

A harmonious blend of traditional technique and timeless design, this natsume is a piece to cherish and enjoy for many years to come.

Precautions for Using Lacquerware

• Please handle lacquerware with care, as the surface can be delicate.
• When storing or using it together with other items, friction or accidental scratches may cause the lacquer coating to wear or peel.
• Wash gently by hand, wipe dry with a soft cloth, and store in a place away from direct sunlight.
  This will help preserve the lacquer surface for many years.
• Do not soak the item in water. Prolonged exposure may cause the lacquer to deteriorate or peel.
• Avoid using microwave ovens, ovens, direct heat, or dishwashers, as these may damage the lacquerware.
• As this is a handcrafted lacquer item, please take care to avoid impacts, rubbing, or dropping it, as this may cause the lacquer to peel or the surface sheen to fade.