Japanese Tea Caddy Itsukō-zan 逸香山 Hōraizan-motief with gold Nakamura Sōetsu

This refined natsume is finished in traditional urushi lacquer and richly decorated with maki-e, in which gold leaf has been applied with great care and precision. The object bears the poetic name Itsukō-zan 逸香山, freely translated as “Mountain of Refined Fragrance.” This name does not refer to a specific place, but rather to an idealized landscape within Japanese aesthetics—a world of calm, continuity, and mindful attention.

Symbology

The decoration represents a Hōraizan theme. In Japanese art, Hōraizan 蓬莱山—the mythical mountain symbolizing harmony and longevity—is rarely depicted literally. Instead, the concept is evoked through a traditional combination of landscape elements, all of which are brought together on this natsume.

Around the object unfolds a layered landscape in which each element carries symbolic meaning:

• The tree, firmly rooted and rendered with finely detailed gold leaves, represents continuity, growth, and steadfastness.

• The cranes, shown in motion, symbolize dignity, good fortune, and long life.

• The turtle, discreetly placed on the underside, stands for endurance, protection, and longevity.

Together, these motifs form a harmonious, timeless landscape—not as a narrative scene, but as a contemplative image that aligns naturally with the stillness of the tea ceremony.

Nashiji

Gold leaf plays a central role in the visual presence of this object. Finely scattered gold (nashiji) lends depth to the ground, while carefully cut gold-leaf forms accentuate the mountain, tree, and details. Through this layered construction, the surface responds subtly to light and movement—at times warm and subdued, at others bright and vivid. This interplay of light is characteristic of high-quality maki-e and invites attentive viewing.

Object details

• Title: Itsukō-zan 逸香山
• Artist: Nakamura Sōetsu (中村宗悦)
• Motif: Hōraizan 蓬莱山
• Type: chū-natsume
• Material: Wood, urushi lacquer, maki-e with gold leaf
• Diameter: approx. 6.8 cm
• Height: approx. 7 cm
• Condition: Excellent condition, suitable for both use and collection
• Accessories: Original tomobako with hanko seal and calligraphy
• Additional accessories: Original fukusa cloth (共布)

Signature and artist

Nakamura Sōetsu (born 1932) is a Japanese master of traditional lacquerware (urushi, maki-e). He learned the craft at a young age from his father and later specialized in creating utensils for the Japanese tea ceremony, including natsume (tea caddies), chabako, and other chadōgu. His work is renowned for its elegant, nature-inspired designs—featuring birds, flowers, and plants—and for the refined use of techniques such as gold maki-e and mother-of-pearl inlay. He has received multiple national honors in Japan, and his work is collected internationally. In 1987, he was also granted an official tea-ceremony name, confirming his esteemed status within the world of tea arts.

As a gift

This natsume is an ideal gift for significant milestones such as anniversaries, long-standing collaborations, retirement, marriage, or other important life transitions. Through its subtle symbolism of continuity, harmony, and prosperity, the object conveys appreciation, dedication, and shared commitment. At the same time, it invites reflection and mindfulness toward what lies ahead, making it not only a refined work of art but also a meaningful and enduring gift.