Shokyu 昭丘 - Natsume - Sumiyoshi Maki-e Flat Tea Caddy with Silk Pouch and Original Lacquered Wood Box　住吉蒔絵 平棗

【Important notes】

・International buyers are responsible for any import duties, taxes, and charges not included in the item price or shipping cost. Please note that VAT paid to Catawiki is separate from and does not cover import duties or customs charges in your country. You may still be required to pay additional fees upon delivery, as determined by your local customs authorities.
・Shipping Details: Most items are shipped via Japan Post EMS (airmail). If you are in a hurry, we can arrange shipping via DHL or FedEx upon request for an additional fee.
・Damage and Issues: If you receive a damaged item, please contact us immediately. The damage must be reported to your local post office within 7 days of delivery, and promptly to us and Catawiki support.

【Product details】

This refined Japanese flat tea caddy (natsume) from the Showa period is beautifully adorned with an intricate gold maki-e design known as Sumiyoshi maki-e. The motif vividly depicts the landscape of Sumiyoshi Taisha, an ancient Shinto shrine in Osaka. The scene features pine trees, a torii gate, a sacred arched bridge, and the flowing waters of the shrine’s pond—all rendered in exquisite detail with shimmering gold powder.

Maki-e is a traditional Japanese decorative technique where gold or silver powder is sprinkled onto wet lacquer to produce intricate designs. This particular piece also features tiny flecks of gold leaf scattered across the surface, adding a subtle brilliance to the landscape.

The interior and base are finished in rich black lacquer, enhanced with nashiji—a speckled technique using gold flecks to create a pear-skin texture. The inside of the lid is also decorated with a charming flight of plovers, a traditional symbol of resilience and harmony.

The bottom of the accompanying original black lacquered wooden box bears a gold signature and red seal of the artist, Shokyū (昭丘). The tea caddy also comes with a decorative silk pouch.

Some minor wear and slight discolouration due to age are present. There is a small crack on the side of the lid, as shown in the photos. Please refer to the images for detailed condition.

Dimensions: approx. H 6 cm W 8.5 cm D 8.5 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!