This exquisite natsume was crafted by the Japanese lacquer master 針谷裕斎 (Hariya Yūsai). Its rounded shape is of the sunkiri type (寸切棗), slightly lower and wider than the standard form, giving it a harmonious, stable appearance.
Motif
The surface is covered with multiple layers of transparent reddish-brown urushi lacquer (透漆, suki-urushi), creating a warm, deep luster that allows the underlying layers to shimmer through. Adorned on top are elegant motifs of spring plants (haruno), including blooming wildflowers and ferns, applied in gold powder (金粉) and silver powder (makie). On the lid, a butterfly flutters, its wings inlaid with mother-of-pearl (raden 螺鈿), a symbol of grace, lightness, and rebirth.
The decoration is executed using the classical togidashi-makie technique, where the lacquer is polished to an even, glossy surface after the application of metal powders and mother-of-pearl. This is a time-consuming and demanding process that only experienced masters undertake.
Symbolism
Haruno (春野) literally means “spring field” (春 haru = spring, 野 no = field). In an object name, it refers to the motif or theme of the decoration, often spring plants and flowers. The butterfly (蝶) in Japan represents elegance, transformation, and happiness. The spring plants (春野) symbolize the awakening of nature and renewal. Together, they express the tea ceremony ideal of wabi-sabi: beauty in simplicity, transience, and renewal.
Object Details
- Title: Haruno makie sunkiri natsume (春野蒔絵 寸切棗 )
- Creator : Hariya Yūsai (針谷裕斎)
- Period Late Showa to Early Heisei (c. 1980–2000)
- Technique Urushi lacquer, gold and silver makie, raden
- Form Sunkiri type (low & wide)
- Dimensions approx. Ø 6.5 cm × H 6.0 cm
- Material Wood core with natural urushi lacquer
- Motif Butterfly and spring plants (haruno)
- Includes: Original tomobako with signature
- Includes: fukusa cloth, paper outer box
- Condition: Excellent
- Origin Japan (Yamanaka Shikki tradition)
Tomobako and Authenticity
The set is presented in its original tomobako (共箱), the wooden box on which the title 春野蒔絵 寸切 (“Haruno makie sunkiri”) and the signature 裕斎 作 (“made by Yūsai”) with seal (印) are inscribed. This includes the original silk fukusa cloth, also bearing the lacquer master's seal, and a blue paper outer packaging with the atelier's label.
Signature and Maker
Hariya Yūsai (裕斎) is the artist name of Masayuki Hariya, where Yū (裕) stands for abundance or richness and Sai (斎) refers to an atelier or place of dedication. Together, the name symbolizes his atelier of creative dedication and reflects his commitment to the craft of maki-e and traditional lacquerware.
Hariya Yūsai is a contemporary master lacquer artist within the Yamanaka Shikki tradition (山中漆器) in Ishikawa Prefecture. He was born in 1954 in Kaga City and is still active as a maki-e artist. His work is characterized by a refined combination of classical Japanese lacquer techniques and elegant, nature-inspired motifs.
Hariya Yūsai is a member of the prestigious Japan Kōgei Association, Ishikawa branch. Membership in this association signifies that his work is recognized for its high artistic and artisanal quality. It confirms his status as a master lacquer artist and lends additional authority to his work in exhibitions and auctions. Since the 1980s, Hariya has regularly participated in major regional exhibitions, including the Ishikawa Exhibition, Chunichi Exhibition, and various specialized art and craft expositions.
He has received multiple awards, such as the Technical Prize of the Creative Exhibition (1983 and 1989) and the Encouragement Prize from the Ishikawa Traditional Industry Promotion Council (1987). Additionally, he was selected for exhibitions such as the Hokuriku Seiun Exhibition and the Hanamachi Art Exhibition.
The Hariya family is an active dynasty of maki-e artists and lacquerware masters in Yamanaka Onsen. Their workshop functions as a center for production, education, and cultural exchange, where the next generation actively contributes to the continuity and renewal of the Japanese lacquerware tradition. They combine classical Yamanaka techniques with modern design concepts and engage the public through exhibitions, workshops, and demonstrations, ensuring that traditional lacquerware remains vibrant. More information about the Hariya family can be found via this
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