Name: Traditional Japanese Wooden Hana Ikada Maki-e (花筏蒔絵) Black Lacquer Rikyu Medium Natsume (with original tomobako) Artist: Kamashō Keiichi (釜匠 啓一) Dimensions: H. approx. 6.6 cm × Max. Diam. approx. 6.7 cm (2.60 in × 2.64 in) Weight: 45.8 g (excluding tomobako) Tomobako Dimensions: H. 9.6 cm × W. 9.0 cm (3.78 in × 3.54 in) Material: Wooden core, genuine lacquer, Maki-e Period: Contemporary Japan, approx. 1990–2000s This classic wooden Hana Ikada Maki-e (花筏蒔絵) Rikyu Natsume (利休棗) for the Japanese tea ceremony is offered complete with its original paulownia wood tomobako (共箱), in very good overall condition. Natsume is a traditional vessel used in the Japanese tea ceremony, named for its round, compact shape resembling a jujube date. The Rikyu Natsume (利休棗) is the classic shape established by the great tea master Sen no Rikyu (千利休), representing the orthodox form of tea ceremony utensil. This piece is crafted using the exquisite Japanese technique of Maki-e (蒔絵): gold and silver powder are mixed with lacquer to paint designs on a black lacquer ground. After polishing, the patterns display a luxurious metallic luster, making Maki-e one of the most representative techniques of Japanese lacquer art. The design features flowing water patterns as the background, with a bamboo raft decorated with seasonal flowers — plum, chrysanthemum, orchid and others — highlighted in red, gold and green Maki-e, creating rich and elegant layers. Hana Ikada (花筏), or "flower raft", originates from classical Japanese literature, depicting the iconic spring scene of cherry blossoms falling and floating on the water. As a classic auspicious motif in Japan, it symbolizes the poetic elegance of drifting blossoms and conveys wishes for smooth fortune and peace. It is a quintessential expression of the Japanese aesthetic mono no aware (物哀) and one of the most beloved patterns in the tea ceremony, embodying its refined and tranquil spirit. The piece has a wooden core with black lacquer, featuring a smooth, lustrous finish characteristic of the traditional Japanese lacquer technique Wajima-nuri (輪島塗). The original tomobako (共箱) is well-preserved: Ink inscription on the lid: Hana Ikada Maki-e Rikyu Natsume (花筏蒔絵 利休 棗) – design name and vessel shape Ink inscription on the side: Kamashō Keiichi (釜匠 啓一) – artist’s signature, with his seal. Kamashō (釜匠) denotes the craftsman’s title, while Keiichi (啓一) is the given name of this contemporary Japanese lacquer artisan. Due to its age, the Natsume and tomobako show minor natural signs of aging. However, the lacquer surface of the Natsume remains intact, with no noticeable scratches, cracks or peeling. The overall condition is excellent. Due to temporary service suspension, Taiwan Post EMS has suspended parcel delivery to the following countries starting March 10, 2026: United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Israel, Pakistan, Maldives, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Azerbaijan, Oman, Kuwait, Jordan, Lebanon, Greece, Egypt, Morocco. Bidders from these countries are kindly requested not to bid at this time. Note: Delivery to Italy takes approximately 6–7 days. Customs or the courier may contact you for customs clearance. Kindly reply promptly, as delays may result in the package being returned. Contacting them directly can help speed up the process: dogane.malpensa.urp@agenziadogane.it Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. - The picture is part of the description. The color of the item may be slightly different from the picture (due to camera and screen settings). - The successful bidder will be responsible for any customs duties and taxes (if applicable). - This item will be mailed by the postal service of Taiwan in the form of airmail with insurance attached.