Jihei Murase Japanese, b. 1957
Negoro Nuri Tea Caddy, 2019
Lacquer
H2 3/4 x W3 3/4 x L3 3/4 in,
H6 1/2 x W9 3/10 x L9 3/10 cm
H6 1/2 x W9 3/10 x L9 3/10 cm
C19959
Murase uses a lathe to sculpt the cylindrical form of this lacquered tea caddy. The red vermillion contrast against the deep black base. Murase specializes in this negoro lacquer style, dating to the Kamakura period (1185–1333). Here, we see perfect three legs that are hand-carved but look completely identical.