Tachibina Maki-e Black Natsume 立雛蒔絵黒中棗（たちびなまきえくろちゅうなつめ）｜Okamoto Yosai 岡本陽斎（おかもとようさい） This refined black lacquer natsume tea caddy is adorned with an elegant maki-e depiction of Tachibina, a traditional form of standing hina dolls inspired by Heian-period court attire Tachibina predates the more familiar seated hina dolls and has long been associated with wishes for protection from illness and misfortune, originally serving as symbolic talismans Against the deep black and subtly translucent tame-nuri lacquer ground, delicate gold and silver maki-e and colored lacquer details bring out the graceful presence and festive dignity of the hina figures The composition balances ornate decoration with refined restraint, capturing both the ceremonial beauty and quiet sophistication prized in Japanese tea culture Crafted by Okamoto Yosai, a respected lacquer artist born in Kyoto in 1932, this piece reflects his mastery as a nushi lacquer craftsman After establishing his workshop in Kaga, Ishikawa Prefecture, he gained recognition for creating seasonal tea utensils, particularly natsume, admired for their elegance and technical excellence This work dates from the late 20th century and exemplifies the continuity of classical motifs within modern Japanese lacquer art --- Artist Profile 1932 Born in Kyoto, Japan Established a lacquer workshop in Kaga, Ishikawa Prefecture Active as a lacquer artist and nushi, producing tea utensils inspired by seasonal themes and classical aesthetics --- Accessories Original wooden storage box tomobako included --- Dimensions & Weight Height 7 cm Diameter 7 cm Weight 64 g Box size 8.5 × 8.5 × 10 cm --- Technique & Condition Material Wood and lacquer Technique Maki-e Excellent condition with minimal signs of wear --- Shipping Shipping via Japan Post EMS from Japan Items are shipped only to countries where EMS delivery from Japan is available Items are securely packed to ensure safe international delivery Import duties, VAT, and customs handling fees are the sole responsibility of the buyer For bidders in the United States Please note that Japan Post is currently not accepting EMS shipments of commercial goods to the United States If the winning bidder’s shipping address is in the United States, the item will be shipped via DHL Express instead Please be aware that shipping costs via DHL are significantly higher than EMS rates