Description: This wooden chu-natsume is decorated in the Koma-nuri style, its surface encircled by concentric bands of red, green, and yellow lacquer that recall the steady rotation of a spinning top. The bands follow the rounded form of the vessel, drawing the eye evenly around its circumference. Used in the tea ceremony to hold powdered thin tea (usucha), the caddy is finished with a smooth, polished exterior. In contrast, the interior and the underside of the base are coated in transparent brown lacquer, allowing the natural wood grain to remain visible. The artist’s signature is hand-painted in black lacquer on the bottom. It is accompanied by its original signed wooden box (tomobako). Dimensions: Height: 6.8 cm Diameter: 6.7 cm Weight: 50 grams Condition: No chips, cracks or restorations. Artist Profile: Nakamura Soetsu / 中村宗悦 (b. 1932) Born in Ishikawa Prefecture, Nakamura Soetsu is a distinguished Yamanaka lacquerware artist. He studied under his father, the first-generation Soetsu, and was later guided by the tea ceremony masters of the Omotesenke and Urasenke schools. He is a regular member of the Japan Kōgei Association and has held numerous solo exhibitions at major Japanese department stores, including Mitsukoshi and Takashimaya. He is known for his high-quality tea utensils that strictly adhere to the traditional aesthetics of the tea ceremony. Additional Notes: Please review all photos carefully as they are part of the item description. Shipping Information: All items are shipped from Japan via DHL or Japan Post, depending on the destination. Each piece is carefully packed using professional materials suitable for fine art shipping. A tracking number will be provided once the shipment has been dispatched. Shipping costs vary by item depending on the nature of the work, its size, and shipping requirements. For some pieces, shipping may be included as part of the overall service. Shipping conditions are clearly stated for each individual listing. We cannot under-declare item values or mark shipments as gifts. Import Duties & Taxes: Import duties, VAT, and any additional customs or processing fees are not included in the auction price. These charges are the responsibility of the buyer. Please check with your local customs office for details before bidding. Customs Communication: Customs or the shipping carrier may contact you for additional information (such as ID verification or payment of duties). Please respond promptly to avoid delays or returns. Thank you very much for your understanding and cooperation.