[Vintage] Tsugaru-nuri Natsume (tea caddy), Kara-nuri, Ro (black)

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

This natsume is crafted using Tsugaru-nuri, a traditional lacquerware technique from Aomori in northern Japan. Known for its deep luster and richly layered patterns, Tsugaru lacquerware is created through an exceptionally time‑intensive process. The iconic Karanuri style featured here involves approximately 40–48 individual steps, where layers of colored lacquer are applied, polished, and carefully ground to reveal organic, stone-like patterns unique to each piece.

This particular natsume is finished in “Ro” (black), a classic color within the Karanuri tradition. The glossy black surface reveals subtle mottled patterns that shift with the light, offering a quiet elegance that deepens with use. No two pieces ever share the same expression, making each item truly one of a kind.

Traditionally used to hold matcha for the Japanese tea ceremony, this natsume also fits beautifully into modern lifestyles as a versatile container:

• A small accessory case
• A desk organizer for tiny items
• A container for incense or fragrant wood
• A keepsake box for cherished objects

Lacquerware develops a richer sheen over time, becoming smoother and more personal with each use. This piece embodies the harmony of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design, bringing a touch of Japanese artistry into everyday life.

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.