Thank you very much for your interest. Before proceeding with your purchase, please review the following details carefully. Item Saijō Issai — “Hana-Ikada” (Floating Flowers) Large Tea Caddy (Ō-Natsume) Gold & Silver Maki-e | Raised Maki-e | Nashiji With Original Signed Wooden Box (Tomobako) About the Artist – Saijō Issai Saijō Issai is a recognized contemporary Japanese lacquer artist, active from the late Shōwa through the Heisei period, particularly esteemed in the field of tea ceremony lacquerware. His work is distinguished by: Advanced raised maki-e techniques with sculptural precision Sophisticated control of gold and silver powders, never excessive, always balanced Faithful yet refined interpretations of classical motifs, such as cherry blossoms, maple leaves, and flowing water A strong focus on tea utensils, especially natsume and kōgō, where subtlety and proportion are paramount Issai’s works are valued not for mass production, but for their quiet authority and technical discipline, making them especially attractive to collectors who appreciate refined, non-flamboyant Japanese aesthetics. Description of the Work This large ō-natsume presents the classical motif Hana-Ikada—cherry blossoms and maple leaves drifting together upon flowing water. In Japanese aesthetics, Hana-Ikada symbolizes the beauty of impermanence, where different seasons momentarily coexist before passing away. This poetic theme is particularly well suited to the tea ceremony, where transience and restraint are central values. Artistic Highlights Raised gold and silver maki-e petals and leaves provide subtle three-dimensional depth The lid features sakura and momiji set against a delicate nashiji ground, shimmering softly beneath the surface The body is encircled by elegant gold water streams, creating a sense of continuous movement The deep black lacquer base enhances contrast while maintaining visual calm The composition is neither decorative excess nor austerity—it is carefully restrained, a hallmark of accomplished tea-ceremony lacquerware. Signature & Authenticity The base bears the gold signature 「一斎」 (Issai) The original tomobako is inscribed with the artist’s name and motif, confirming authenticity The interior is finished in smooth black lacquer, suitable for practical tea use, not merely display Period Heisei Era (circa 1990s–2000s) Accessories • Original signed wooden box (tomobako) • Complete set as shown in the photographs Condition Very good condition for a used item. No cracks, chips, or structural damage. The lacquer surface and maki-e retain excellent gloss and clarity. Please review all photos carefully. Why This Piece Deserves Attention A large-format ō-natsume, preferred for formal tea settings A refined Hana-Ikada motif, deeply rooted in tea aesthetics Raised maki-e combined with nashiji—technically demanding methods Signed work by a recognized contemporary lacquer artist Preserved with its original tomobako This is not a decorative souvenir, but a serious tea-ceremony object reflecting discipline, restraint, and classical taste. Shipping & Notes: We will carefully pack and ship the item via Japan Post. For international deliveries, the final delivery will be handled by the local postal service in the destination country (courier selection is not available). Please note that packaging is done by a non-professional, and full protection cannot be guaranteed. Combined shipping for multiple items is not available. Delivery typically takes about 3 weeks, but delays may occur due to customs or local conditions. Import duties and taxes are not included in the item price or shipping cost; these are the buyer’s responsibility. If you are contacted by local customs or delivery services, please respond promptly. If the item is returned due to failed delivery, reshipping costs will be the buyer’s responsibility. If there is no contact for more than one month, the item may be disposed of or resold. We sincerely hope the item arrives safely and brings you satisfaction. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.