This natsume was created by lacquer artist Kōgetsu (江月). The piece bears a handwritten endorsement inside the lid of the tomobako known as a kakitsuke (書付) by Fujii Kaidō, the 515th abbot of Daitoku-ji Temple in Kyoto, one of the most authoritative names in the world of the Japanese tea ceremony. Motif Against the deep black lacquer ground, delicately executed gold and silver maki-e depict the branches and leaves of bamboo. The composition appears dense and lifelike, as if a breeze were passing through the foliage. The lines are extremely fine and reveal a master’s hand: slender shoots alternate with full leaves that spread gracefully in all directions. Symbolism In Japanese culture, bamboo is one of the “Three Friends of Winter” (saikansanyū, 歳寒三友), together with pine and plum. It symbolizes strength, flexibility, and resilience: bamboo bends in the storm but does not break. Within the tea ceremony, bamboo represents humility and restraint, precisely the qualities sought by the master of wabi-cha. The Kakitsuke of Fujii Kaidō A kakitsuke is a handwritten inscription by a respected tea master or temple abbot on a tomobako, confirming the quality of an object. Fujii Kaidō (1898–1984), played an important role in restoring the temple after World War II. His kakitsuke was not granted routinely, each object was judged with genuine expertise and deep understanding. When his name appears on a tomobako, it signifies that the piece has passed a discerning and authoritative evaluation. Signature and Maker The seal on the tomobako and the accompanying cloth display the characteristic gourd emblem (瓢箪) containing the characters 江月, the personal seal of Kōgetsu. The name 江月 literally means “river moonlight.” This imagery subtly reappears in the work: among the golden bamboo leaves, several leaves are intentionally rendered in silver, evoking moonlight gliding across the branches at night. 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.