Natsume - Crane with Pine Branch in Gold Maki-e Tea Caddy (松喰鶴蒔絵 大棗) - Seiho (静峰)

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【Product details】

This refined natsume (tea caddy) was crafted in the early Heisei period by the Wajima lacquerware artist Seiho (Oya Yoshio). It is a superb example of the region’s renowned craftsmanship, combining aesthetic elegance with technical excellence.

The exterior features a vermilion red lacquer ground with a wave texture adorned with an elegant maki-e design of a crane flying with a pine branch in its beak. The body of the crane is further accented with inlaid mother-of-pearl, lending it a luminous iridescence. In Japanese symbolism, the crane represents longevity and good fortune, while the pine tree signifies steadfastness and eternal youth—together they form a highly auspicious motif.

Gold maki-e is a traditional Japanese decorative technique where gold powder is sprinkled onto wet lacquer to produce intricate designs.

The interior and underside are finished with multiple layers of lustrous amber-toned transparent lacquer, under which gold leaf and powder have been applied to create a warm, glowing depth.

Wajima lacquerware is celebrated for its durability and beauty, achieved through a meticulous process involving over 23 stages and more than 124 individual steps. This results in a robust and graceful finish, with every detail—from the fine, deliberate brush lines to the subtle textures—showcasing the artisan’s refined skill.

Ōya Yoshio was born in Showa 58 (1983), Seihō has exhibited in numerous national and international lacquerware exhibitions since the 1980s. Notable accolades include the Encouragement Prize at the 9th Bijutsuten (Art Exhibition), the Excellence Prize at the 10th edition, and special awards in exhibitions in Kyoto, Tokyo, and Singapore. His works have included blue dry lacquer incense containers, lacquer trays, and folding screens, many featuring traditional themes such as cranes, fans, and seasonal flowers.

The piece comes in its original signed wooden box with a matching silk cloth, both bearing the artist’s signature and seal. An artist résumé is included. Very good used condition with minimal wear. Please refer to the photos for details.

Dimensions: approx. H 7.5 cm W 7.5 cm D 7.5 cm

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・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!