A boldly decorative lacquer natsume (tea caddy) in the Botan-gata (peony form) style — a vivid display of the Kawatsura lacquerware tradition from Akita Prefecture. The exterior is covered entirely in a dense, interlocking chrysanthemum-petal relief pattern rendered in deep vermillion red against jet black lacquer lines, creating a richly textured surface that catches the light with every turn. The interior is finished in a pure, lustrous black. The lid fits snugly with a satisfying weight, and the overall form — swelling and rounded like a ripe peony blossom — gives the piece a confident, ceremonial presence at the tea table. The box bears the handwritten label "Botan-gata (牡丹形)," confirming the design designation. 【About the Artist & Tradition】 Soetsu Nakamura (中村宗悦, b. 1932) is a leading lacquerware artist from Ishikawa Prefecture. He studied the traditional lacquering technique of kyushitsu (髹漆 — the art of applying urushi lacquer with brush and spatula) under his father from 1946, and has devoted his career entirely to this demanding craft. Under the guidance of Zen master Soiwa Nakao of Tokuen-ji Temple, he deepened his knowledge of chado (the way of tea) and began producing formal tea utensils in earnest. He has won numerous prizes at the National Lacquerware Exhibition (Zenkoku Shikki-ten), received the tea name "Sokyo" in 1987, and was appointed associate professor of chado in 1992. His work is treasured by tea practitioners throughout Japan. Kawatsura lacquerware (川連漆器) is a designated Traditional Craft of Japan (1976), produced in Kawatsura, Akita Prefecture, for over 800 years. It is distinguished by the hananuri finishing technique — a final application of urushi that is left to dry without polishing, producing a soft, organic sheen unique to the tradition. 【Condition】 Excellent. The lacquer surface is vibrant and intact, with no chips, cracks, or significant wear. Minor signs of age consistent with careful storage. Accompanied by the original signed wooden presentation box (共箱, tomobako) and the original cloth bag (仕服, shifuku). The Kawatsura Lacquerware certificate booklet is also included. 【Shipping】 Carefully packed and shipped internationally with full tracking for safe delivery. 【※Important Information※】 ※Important Information – Please Read Before Bidding※ Customs duties, VAT, and import clearance fees are not included in the shipping cost and are the responsibility of the buyer. These charges vary depending on your country's import regulations and are beyond the seller's control. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. All items are carefully packed and promptly shipped with tracking to ensure safe delivery. Please bid with confidence.