Natsume
Natsume (Tea Caddies)
The natsume is among the most refined and essential utensils in the Japanese tea ceremony, serving as the vessel for powdered matcha used in usucha (thin tea). Named for its resemblance to the shape of a jujube fruit (natsume), this form embodies the principles of restraint, balance, and quiet elegance that define the aesthetic of chanoyu. Though modest in scale, the natsume carries profound significance within tea practice, linking craftsmanship, seasonal awareness, and the personal interaction between host and guest.
Traditionally constructed from wood and finished with multiple layers of lacquer, the natsume represents a harmonious union of material and technique. Over centuries, subtle variations in shape, rim treatment, lacquer layering, and decoration have developed into recognizable styles appreciated by practitioners and collectors alike. From understated black lacquer emphasizing pure form, to richly layered finishes such as Akebono or classical maki-e decoration, each example reflects both functional design and artistic intention.
The natsume presented by Tea Dogu are selected for authenticity, craftsmanship, and suitability for use in tea practice. Each piece is carefully examined and documented, including evaluation of construction methods and core materials—distinguishing traditional wood cores from later composite or resin forms where applicable. This approach provides transparency for collectors while preserving the spirit of practical usability valued within the tea tradition.
