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Natsume – Kara Nuri NASHIGURO (handcrafted canister)

Handcrafted Matcha Canister, diameter: 2.59inch (6.6cm) height: 2.48inch (6.3cm) Material: Wood composite, Traditional Kara Nuri Lacquer Craft

A Natsume is a traditional tea caddy used in the Japanese tea ceremony to store Matcha. The name “Natsume” originally refers to the jujube fruit, and this tea utensil came to be called so because its elegant form closely resembles the fruit itself.

Beyond its ceremonial role, the Natsume has evolved into a sophisticated object of beauty. Modern designs allow it to be enjoyed as an interior accent, harmonizing effortlessly with contemporary spaces. Whether for everyday use, entertaining guests, or as a display piece, a lacquered Natsume elevates the experience. When paired with high-quality Matcha, a lacquerware Natsume offers a sense of quiet luxury and refinement.

This Natsume is crafted using Kara Nuri, the most representative technique of Tsugaru lacquer craft, in which artisans create distinctive speckled patterns with a perforated spatula, layer colored lacquer, and then polish the surface to reveal vibrant, abstract designs. The word “Kara” signifies excellence, reflecting the superior craftsmanship of this technique.

Finished in a timeless black lacquer (Nashi Guro), this Natsume offers a simple yet elegant appearance. Subtle accents of metallic powder add depth and character. After building the speckled texture, green lacquer is applied, followed by metallic detailing, multiple layers of black lacquer, careful polishing, and a refined glossy finish.

Ideal for everyday use, special occasions, or as a thoughtful gift, this Natsume is a lasting piece of Japanese craftsmanship that is both practical and beautifully decorative.

Specially packaged in a carton box.
Made in Japan.
(Please note that each Kara Nuri lacquer craft piece is handmade, so the pattern may vary slightly.)

Price:US$262.00

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Kara Nuri

Kara Nuri is the most iconic and representative technique of Tsugaru lacquer craft. Using a perforated spatula, artisans create distinctive speckled patterns in raw lacquer, then layer multiple coats of colored lacquer. The surface is meticulously polished to reveal a richly colored, abstract design full of depth and movement. The word “Kara” signifies excellence.
Tsugaru Nuri lacquer craft boasts a history of over 300 years and is renowned for its remarkable durability combined with refined beauty. Each piece undergoes an extraordinary process of applying, polishing, and refining lacquer 38 to 48 times. This labor-intensive method is so demanding that it is sometimes affectionately referred to as “Baka-nuri,” meaning “fool’s lacquer craft,” reflecting the almost unimaginable time, effort, and dedication required.

Directions

- Because natural wood is used, each item will have a unique wood grain and color tone. Please note that these variations are a natural characteristic of the material.
- Do not use in a microwave, refrigerator, or freezer.
- To clean, wipe with a dry, soft cloth.
- For stains that cannot be removed by dry wiping, gently wash with a soft sponge and a mild dish detergent, then wipe dry.
- Do not use abrasive cleansers, scouring pads, or brushes with stiff bristles.
- Do not place in a dishwasher or dryer.
- Avoid soaking for long periods, as this may cause cracking or warping.
- Store away from direct sunlight.
- Each piece is made by hand, so the pattern might look a little different from the photo.
- The color may look a bit different depending on the camera flash or other lighting conditions.