Japanese Natsume Caddy, Wajima Maki-E Lacquer Tea Canister, 2.6in Boxed

Handcrafted from turned Oridame wood, this lightweight lacquered tea container, the Japanese Natsume Caddy, is patterned with gold maki-e depicting a paulownia crest and bamboo leaf motif, sized for daily chanoyu use and boxed for gifting. Made as an usuki natsume with a shorter lid and reinforced lacquer at the turned seams, it measures 2.6in × 2.6in and weighs about 1.9oz, offering authentic tea utensil presence without unnecessary weight. The wavy sabi texture reflects traditional aesthetics while the paulownia family crest and bamboo decoration signal high status and ceremonial suitability for serving matcha or displaying in a collection and storage.

Craft & technique

The piece is formed using the Oridame technique, where a single thin wood sheet is cut and turned to shape the body, then lacquered for strength and finish. The maker’s skill is evident in the seamless profile and the subtle wavy surface called sabi, a textural quality prized in tea ceremony objects. The natsume format (usuki type) has a shorter lid than the body, consistent with traditional chanoyu practice.

Decoration and symbolism

Gold maki-e highlights a paulownia family crest on the lid and a delicate bamboo leaf motif across the body. In Japanese decorative language, the paulownia emblem ranks with other high-status crests and the bamboo motif evokes resilience and elegance. The lacquer surface accentuates the gold work while protecting the wood for long-term use as a matcha container or display piece.

Measurements, care, and contents

The canister is small and lightweight, intended for powdered tea storage during tea service rather than long-term airtight storage. Care: avoid prolonged moisture and direct sunlight; clean gently with a soft, dry cloth. Contents: one signed wooden box is included; cloth and tea utensils shown in images are not included.

Uses and gifting

Appropriate for chanoyu practice, collectors of lacquerware, or as a refined tea ceremony gift. Its boxed presentation and authentic maki-e art make it suitable as a tea ceremony gift or a museum-quality addition to an antique matcha jar collection.

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🌐 International Buyers: Standard DDU terms. Custom duties/taxes are the buyer's responsibility upon delivery.

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🛡️ RETURNS & CONDITION

• Returns: Accepted within 7 days. Buyer pays round-trip shipping costs and processing fees for buyer's remorse.

• Condition: Our items are authentic antiques/vintage. Naturally, they carry signs of age (scratches/wear). Please examine all photos carefully before purchasing.

FAQ

Q: Is this a usable matcha container?

A: Yes; the canister is ready to use for tea ceremony service or short-term matcha storage, following gentle care instructions.

Q: Does the box and accessories come with the piece?

A: The signed wooden presentation box is included. Cloth and other tea utensils are not included.

Q: What materials and techniques are used?

A: The vessel is made of Oridame-turned wood, lacquered and decorated with gold maki-e art; listed materials are wood, lacquer, and gold.

Q: Is it an authentic chanoyu tool or a reproduction?

A: The listing describes a handcrafted usuki-style vessel made by a Japanese artisan with traditional oridame technique and maki-e decoration, presented in very good condition.