Japanese Keyaki Wood Natsume Tea Caddy with Gold Bamboo Design 2.5" Netsuke faces the celestial dragon

faces the celestial dragon

At least one block of black color done in black lacquer

as seen in this print

” The cartouche identifies Saigō (西郷)

copper or other metal inlay) left on a few of the rings years of use have worn off most of the original shakudo off

Japanese Keyaki Wood Natsume Tea Caddy with Gold Bamboo Design 2.5" Netsuke faces the celestial dragonA beautifully crafted Japanese tea caddy, or natsume (), made from richly grained keyaki wood (Japanese elm) and delicately decorated with a gold lacquer bamboo motif. This fine example combines natural elegance with traditional artistry, embodying the quiet sophistication that defines Japanese tea culture. The natsume is an essential utensil in chanoyu (, the Japanese tea ceremony), used to hold usucha the finely milled powdered green tea whisked to