Natsume 棗 朱红漆配金沈金菊花纹 - 木, 金 - Mae Shigeo 前 志芸男 - 日本 - Shōwa period (1926-1989)

Mae Shigeo 前志芸男 – Wajima Lacquer Hira-Natsume

Vermilion Lacquer with Gold Chinkin Chrysanthemum Design

An elegant Wajima lacquer hira-natsume (平棗) by Japanese lacquer artist Mae Shigeo (前志芸男), richly decorated with chrysanthemums using the traditional chinkin (沈金) technique.

The most striking feature is the contrast between the brilliant vermilion-red lacquer and the delicate gold decoration. Countless chrysanthemums spread continuously across the lid and body, creating the impression of an endless field of golden flowers.

Chinkin, literally meaning “sunken gold,” is one of the characteristic decorative techniques of Wajima lacquerware. The design is carefully engraved into the hardened lacquer surface, after which gold is applied into the fine incisions. Unlike painted decoration, the gold becomes embedded within the surface itself. Looking closely, each chrysanthemum is formed from numerous extremely fine engraved lines, revealing the remarkable patience and precision required to create the piece.

The chrysanthemum (kiku) has been treasured in Japan for centuries and is traditionally associated with longevity, refinement and autumn. Here, rather than depicting a single flower, Mae Shigeo covers almost the entire vessel with chrysanthemums of varying sizes. The repetition transforms this classical Japanese motif into an almost geometric composition, giving the work a surprisingly modern visual character.

The broad, low form of the hira-natsume provides an ideal canvas for this decoration. As the vessel is turned, the gold catches the light differently, making the pattern subtly change in appearance.

A natsume is traditionally used to hold powdered matcha during the Japanese tea ceremony. It is therefore an object designed not only to be viewed, but also to be held and appreciated at close range—a beautiful example of the Japanese tradition of bringing exceptional craftsmanship into objects of everyday ritual.

A refined piece of Japanese lacquer art in which traditional symbolism, technical precision and timeless design come together in a remarkably elegant form.


[Size]
Diameter
7.5cm

Height
6cm

Excellent condition.
A box is also included.

志芸男 mark can be seen on the bottom.

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