Hanakago maki-e natsume Shōun

An elegant Japanese natsume (chū-natsume) executed in the refined Kaga maki-e style. The deep black urushi forms the background for an exquisite hanakago (flower basket) motif in fine gold maki-e. Softly rendered autumn grasses and autumn flowers (akikusa) evoke a poetic seasonal atmosphere that is central to the Japanese tea ceremony.

The basket is subtly enhanced with the nashiji technique, which adds depth and a soft, shimmering texture, while a carefully placed raden (mother-of-pearl) inlay creates a radiant focal point against the rich lacquer surface.

The piece is signed Shōun (松雲) and is accompanied by its original tomobako, the signed wooden storage box that confirms the provenance and identity of the maker.

Kaga maki-e is a highly esteemed Japanese lacquer tradition that has attracted European collectors for centuries. From the 17th to the 18th century, lacquerware from Kaga and Wajima was exported via Dutch, English, and Portuguese trade networks and collected by royal courts and the aristocracy. The striking gold and silver compositions on deep black lacquer were prized for their technical sophistication and aesthetic finesse.

A harmonious and seasonal object, suitable for use during the matcha ceremony (chanoyu) or as a centerpiece within a refined collection of Japanese lacquer art.