A lovely lacquer tea caddy 棗 (natsume) attributed to Takeda Issei (contemporary) decorated with an intricate design of a weeping willow 柳 (yanagi). Executed with refined inlay of iridescent blue and pink mother-of-pearl 螺鈿 (raden) combined with a very special lacquer technique known as Yakumo’nuri 八雲塗 for the leaves and branches, set against a glossy black lacquer ground 蝋色漆 (rôiro’urushi). The interior and recessed base are finished in the same lustrous black lacquer. Yakumo-nuri 八雲塗 is a traditional Japanese lacquerware technique from Matsue, known for its use of semi-transparent lacquer layers to create a "floating" effect Complete with original signed and sealed tomobako 供箱 (storage box). Signed 'Made by Takeda Issei' 武田一勢作. Dimension: Height 7.4 cm, Diameter 7.5 cm. Period: Japan – Shôwa period (1926-1989) In a very good original condition. Please look at the photos for a condition reference. When shipped we will add a certificate of authenticity. Please note: Due to the holidays, shipping and handling times may be longer. Thank you for your understanding.