Japanese Kaga-style Lacquer Natsume – Hanakago Maki-e with Raden – Signed Shōun – Original Tomobako Elegant Japanese lacquer tea caddy (chū-natsume) executed in refined Kaga-style technique. The deep black urushi ground is decorated with an exquisite Hanakago (flower basket) motif in fine gold maki-e. Delicately rendered autumn grasses and flowers (akikusa) evoke a poetic seasonal atmosphere central to the Japanese tea aesthetic. The basket is subtly enhanced with nashiji technique, adding depth and a soft shimmering texture, while a carefully placed raden (mother-of-pearl) inlay creates a luminous focal point against the rich lacquer surface. The piece is signed Shōun (松雲) and is accompanied by its original tomobako (signed wooden storage box), confirming authorship and preserving provenance. A harmonious and seasonally appropriate tea utensil, suitable for use in the matcha ceremony (chanoyu) or as an elegant display piece within a refined collection of Japanese lacquer art. Kaga maki-e is a highly respected Japanese lacquer tradition, admired by European collectors for centuries. From the 17th to 18th centuries, lacquerware from Kaga and Wajima was exported through Dutch, English, and Portuguese trade networks, collected by royalty and aristocracy. Its striking gold and silver designs on deep black lacquer were prized for technical sophistication and aesthetic refinement. Shipping Location: Europe (EU). This item is located within the European Union. Buyers within the EU benefit from no additional import VAT or customs duties.