Tea Ceremony Natsume This piece depicts fireflies flying at night in early summer in Japan. The glow of the fireflies is enhanced with white mother-of-pearl, and the color of the natsume is maroon instead of jet black, with a pale maroon gradient at the corners. This coloring evokes the glow of a night lit by fireflies. Artist: Shiko Hosokawa (1941-) He began his career as a lacquerware artist in Yamanaka Town, Ishikawa Prefecture, and worked as a maki-e (lacquerware) artist. Style: Based on traditional maki-e techniques, he creates works incorporating modern sensibilities. Works: He is known for his tea ceremony natsume (tea caddies), and also creates pieces with motifs from classical literature (such as the Kokin Wakashu). The condition is excellent, with no scratches. The white mother-of-pearl also reflects light. Although the photo shows traces of fine yarn, which appear to be scratches, there are no actual scratches. Comes with a tomobako and a cloth. Dimensions: Height: 7.5cm, Width: 6.5cm, Weight: 60g