【Important notes】 ・International Buyers: Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping charges. These charges are the buyer’s responsibility. ・Please check with your country’s customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to bidding/buying. These duties are paid to your country's customs office and not to us. Prompt payment of these fees is necessary to ensure delivery of your item. 【Product details】 Offering an immaculate example of Showa period (1926-1989) maki-e craftsmanship, this Rikyu-Natsume tea caddy is the work of the skilled artisan Nakatani Hiromine, born January 6, 1923. The tea caddy is a piece of functional art, utilized in the revered Japanese tea ceremony. Maki-e is a distinctive Japanese lacquerware technique where gold or silver powder is sprinkled onto wet lacquer to create intricate patterns, here depicting a weeping willow, a symbol of elegance and grace in Japanese culture. Hiromine's artistry has been recognized throughout his career, with numerous accolades including the Yamanaka Lacquerware New Work Exhibition awards and the Ishikawa Prefecture Governor's Prize in 1994. This natsume features his signature, confirming its authenticity as a collectible artifact. The weeping willow motif on this natsume is not merely decorative; it carries profound symbolism, often associated with immortality and continuing growth, resonating deeply with the spiritual aspects of the tea ceremony. The original wooden box, which accompanies the caddy, bears the artist's details and adds to its value as a collectible. In excellent condition, this piece embodies the enduring beauty of Japanese tradition and meticulous artisanship, making it a prized acquisition for any collector. Dimensions: approx. H 6.4 cm W 6.6 cm D 6.6 cm ・Please make sure to review all the provided information and images before placing your bid. ・We make every effort to accurately represent the product's colors and textures in our photos. However, due to differences in monitors and device displays, as well as photographic conditions, slight color variations between the photos and the actual product may occur. We ask for your understanding in advance. Thank you for your interest, and happy bidding!