Origin: Japan

Introduction: The Chanoyu ceremony comprises the tea room, the tea garden and the various utensils that are used by the host to entertain guests. Chanoyu utensils reflect the traditional crafts of Japan and a high level of artisnal technique. The Omotosenke school of Japanese tea thought suggests that tea utensils such as Natsume are not just to be appreciated for their artistic value but are made for use by tea lovers.

The natsume is named for its resemblance to the natsume fruit (the jujube). It is short with a flat lid and rounded bottom, and is usually made of lacquered or untreated wood. It is used as a caddy for storing the Powdered green tea known as Matcha.

The finish of the Natsume is in brilliant black lacquer - Roiro and finely embellished in gold Hiramaki-e, a low relief inlaid.