‘Matsu Kui Tsuru’ (Pine-Eating Cranes) - Sozan Nakamura 中村宗山 - Tea caddy/ box - Lacquer, Wood - Maki-e Design

Artist: Takaya Nakamura 中村孝也 Title of work: Vermilion Lacquer Natsume Tea Caddy with ‘Tagasode’ (Whose Sleeves?) Maki-e Design 朱塗 誰ヶ袖蒔絵 棗

This exquisite natsume tea caddy was crafted by the renowned Kaga maki-e master, Takaya Nakamura. Utilizing the durable and refined techniques of Wajima-nuri lacquerware, the piece features a striking vermilion lacquer (shu-nuri) surface. This vivid red backdrop serves as a bold stage for the delicate gold and silver maki-e work, creating a luxurious contrast that is highly appreciated in the world of tea ceremony, including the Omotesenke tradition.

The “Tagasode” (literally “Whose Sleeves?”) motif is a classical and poetic design dating back to the Heian period. It typically depicts beautiful kimono sleeves draped over a rack (iko) or casually placed, evoking the presence of a person without actually showing them. This design is deeply connected to the culture of incense and classical poetry (waka), suggesting the lingering fragrance on the robes and inviting the viewer to imagine the elegance and romance of the owner.

The masterful brushwork of the Kaga maki-e technique brings the intricate textile patterns of the kimono sleeves to life on the curved surface of the tea caddy. The warmth of the vermilion lacquer harmonizes beautifully with the bright green of matcha tea, making this piece not only a functional utensil but also a sophisticated work of art that embodies the aesthetic of "suggestive beauty" found in traditional Japanese culture.

Size:
Diameter: 7.5 cm
Height: 7.4 cm

About the Artist
Sōzan Nakamura is a maki-e artist and lacquerware craftsman active in the Kaga region of Ishikawa Prefecture. He is highly regarded for his meticulous maki-e techniques, through which he has produced numerous tea utensils, incense containers, and natsume tea caddies, including large natsume. Nakamura excels at depicting traditional auspicious patterns as well as natural motifs such as flowers and birds, consistently creating works of refined elegance.
Although no official information about his detailed biography or artistic training is currently available, many of his tea ceremony pieces—often accompanied by signed presentation boxes—are actively traded in the art market.



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