Natsume, Chu (middle size), Black with Red Accents Called Akebono, Lacquer over Plastic

A natsume or usuchaki is one of the traditional containers for Matcha tea powder for usucha, or thin tea in the Japanese Tea Ceremony. A natsume comes is several sizes, shapes, colors and compositions.

Akebono (dawn or daybreak) natsume, lacquer on plastic. This is a popular design that began in a time when red lacquer was very difficult to produce, so only a small amount was used in the design. This particular piece uses a plastic sub-form that keeps the cost down. A similar natsume for practice with a wood-form base would cost about twice as much. The buyer needs to determine which is right for them!