Natsume Tea Caddy Collection by Tasaki Shoichiro (田崎昭一郎) - Natsume - Wajima Lacquerware

【Important notes】

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【Product details】

Tasaki Shoichiro was born in 1931 in Wajima, Ishikawa Prefecture. He began studying lacquer at the age of 15 under the renowned master Ichigo Iccho. At 28, he made his debut at the prestigious Nitten Exhibition and later exhibited in major national art and craft shows, including the Japan Traditional Craft Exhibition and various contemporary art exhibitions, earning numerous accolades throughout his career.

・About Yatsuhashi Maki-e Tea Caddy;
This exquisite natsume tea caddy showcases a luxurious Wajima lacquer finish built up through dozens of hand-applied layers over natural wood. The design is inspired by the famous “Yatsuhashi” (Eight Bridges) scene from the ninth episode of The Tales of Ise, a motif famously favoured by the Rinpa school artist Ogata Korin. The composition depicts a zigzag bridge crossing a field of blooming irises, known as kakitsubata, executed in lavish maki-e and inlaid with shimmering mother-of-pearl. The contrast of black lacquer, gold, and abalone shell creates an elegant and refined surface that captures both movement and stillness.

There are some minor blemishes and light scuffs from age, but the piece remains in good vintage condition. A few stains are visible on the cloth. Please refer to the images for further details.

・About Drum Maki-e Tea Caddy;
This striking natsume tea caddy is decorated with a continuous design of maki-e drum-shaped outlines filled with auspicious motifs such as pine, chrysanthemum, arabesques, and paulownia, all set against a rich gold background. A flowing red cord winds through the composition, enhancing the sense of movement and festivity. The interior is finished in glossy black lacquer, and the underside of the lid features two flutes delicately rendered in gold maki-e.

Each of the motifs carries symbolic meaning in Japanese culture. Pine represents endurance and longevity. Chrysanthemums are symbols of nobility and rejuvenation. Arabesques suggest prosperity and flourishing life, while paulownia is often associated with imperial grace and auspicious fortune.

Minor blemishes due to age are visible, but the overall condition is good. Some stains are present on the cloth, and the wooden box shows a few age-related spots. Please refer to the photos for further details.

Dimensions of Yatsuhashi Maki-e Tea Caddy: approx. H 5.5 cm W 8.3 cm D 8.3 cm
Dimensions of Drum Maki-e Tea Caddy: approx. H 7 cm W 7 cm D 7 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!