Akira Nakamura (中村 晃) (1962-) Handcrafted Japanese Urushi Lacquer “Waga Hai” Sake & Tea Cup with Stretching Cat Design – Natural Wood – c.2010 – Original Leaflet Shipping method: DHL Express This charming Japanese lacquerware cup, titled “Waga Hai” (吾が盃 / My Cup), was produced around 2010 as part of a series planned by the Bunkyo City Tourism Association. The cup is crafted from natural wood finished with traditional Japanese urushi lacquer. It features a playful stretching cat illustrated by Akira Nakamura, created using silkscreen printing with partial hand-painting, as described in the original leaflet. The elegant black exterior contrasts beautifully with the deep vermilion interior, creating a timeless Japanese aesthetic. Originally designed as a sake cup, it is equally suitable for tea, desserts, or as a decorative collectible for cat lovers and admirers of Japanese lacquerware. The original leaflet is included. Purpose: Sake cup, tea cup, dessert cup, decorative display, or collector’s item. Size Height: 5.5 cm×Width: 6 cm×Depth: 6 cm Weight 29 g / 0.029 kg Condition Very good condition with only light signs of age and careful use. The original leaflet is included. Artist Profile Akira Nakamura (中村 晃) (1962-) is a Japanese lacquer artist who graduated from Kanazawa College of Art in 1987. After studying under master lacquer artist Shunsho Hattori, he established his independent career in 1995. His work combines traditional Japanese urushi craftsmanship with contemporary artistic design, and he is known for creating refined lacquerware featuring elegant and playful motifs.