Vintage Japanese Gold Lacquer Natsume (Matcha Caddy), Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26M-874

Vintage Japanese Gold Lacquer Natsume (Matcha Caddy), Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26M-874

A radiant gold lacquerware natsume in the classic cylindrical form -- presented in its original signed wooden storage box.

A natsume is a traditional Japanese lidded caddy used in the chado (tea ceremony) to hold powdered matcha. This stunning example is crafted in the cylindrical ko-bunko style -- a form closely related to the natsume -- and finished entirely in brilliant gold lacquer (kinpaku-nuri) over a turned wood body. The exterior displays a fine brushed-gold texture that catches light beautifully, while the interior is coated in a rich vermilion red lacquer, a classic pairing in Japanese lacquerware that signals both ceremonial prestige and the skill of the lacquer artist. The piece separates into two stacked sections beneath a domed lid, allowing it to be used as a nesting container. It retains its original signed kiri (paulownia) wood storage box, indicating it was created as a named or presented work -- a mark of quality in vintage Japanese craft.

In a modern home, this gold lacquerware caddy makes a striking living room accent or bedroom decor piece displayed on a shelf or side table. Its compact cylindrical form is ideal as a luxury jewelry box -- perfect for rings, earrings, or small keepsakes -- or as a vanity organizer for the bathroom or dressing table. With its bold gold-and-red palette, it also fits beautifully within Japandi style interiors or as a maximalist counterpoint in a minimalist decor scheme. A truly unique housewarming gift or gift for collectors of Japanese vintage lacquerware.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Wood with gold lacquer (kinpaku-nuri) exterior; vermilion red lacquer interior; kiri (paulownia) storage box
• Use: Matcha caddy or lidded container for the Japanese tea ceremony (chado)
• Modern Use: Jewelry box for rings and small accessories; vanity or bathroom organizer; decorative living room accent or shelf display
• Features: Cylindrical body with brushed gold lacquer finish; rich red lacquer interior; separates into stacked sections with domed lid; includes original signed kiri wood storage box
• Dimensions: 5" Diameter x 4 1/2"H
• Condition: Excellent

A luminous piece of vintage Japanese lacquerware that brings ceremonial elegance and timeless gold-and-red beauty to any modern home.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.