Ichigo Itcho Wajima Lacquer Large Natsume, Thousand Cranes with Silver Hirame Interior

A Wajima-lacquer o-natsume decorated with a thousand cranes (senbazuru), its interior sprinkled with silver hirame flakes, by the celebrated lacquer artist Ichigo Itcho (1904–1991).

Ichigo Itcho exhibited widely at the Nitten, won the top prize at the 8th Gendai Bijutsu exhibition, and was among the first lacquer artists recognized under Japan's art-craft technique preservation program; the dealer notes a maki-e inkstone box of his was purchased by the then Crown Princess Michiko. Wajima ware is prized for its many-layered, exceptionally durable urushi ground. Cranes are emblems of longevity, making this a fine caddy for celebratory and New Year tea.

Details

• Artist: Ichigo Itcho (一后一兆), Wajima
• Design: thousand cranes; silver hirame interior
• Size: approx. 7.4 cm diameter × 7.5 cm high
• Box: presentation box (keshobako)
• Condition: new, unused dealer stock

Watch: the stages of Wajima maki-e

A film showing the process of maki-e decoration on Wajima lacquer, from the Sunvision channel. (A general craft video — not this piece or maker.)

Please read before ordering

• One of a kind. We confirm availability with the dealer in Japan within one business day of your order; if it has sold we refund in full immediately.
• Ships from New Jersey in 2–3 weeks. Price includes all import duties. Fully insured, signature required.
• Urushi lacquer is durable but dislikes direct sun and very dry air; care notes are included.