Natsume Negoro

32,000 JPY

Just unwrapping this beautiful object is an experience. You will first encounter an elegant washi (Japanese paper) clad box in soft pink tones, highlighted glimmering specks of gold and silver. You will then lift out a box made of light, uncoated wood, adorned with some kanji calligraphy. There is a woven fabric band integrated into the base of this box to untie, as you anticipate what is to come...

Finally, a beautiful, rounded object is revealed; lacquered in black and dark red, decorated with scenes of a japanese garden with matsu (Japanese pine) trees, an elegent torii (Shinto temple) gate, and a bridge over a flowing river, rendered in shimmering gold. This is a truly luxurious, one of a kind work of art.

The Natsume Negoro is a fine piece of traditional craftsmanship, reflecting skills and methods that goes back to the Edo period, some 400 years ago. Note that this is not a bento box. It is meant enjoy tea. Enjoy it as a tea cup, as a storage container, or simply as a beautiful work of the finest Japanese craftsmanship.

A natsume (棗) is a type of chaki (茶器）or tea cup, that is traditionally used to enjoy matcha tea at the traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Natsume can also mean a 'jujube', a small fruit whose shape inspired the shape of the Natsume Negoro. The Negoro part of the name indicates the dark red lacquer used on this piece. It is created entirely by hand, by the finest skilled artisans in Yamanaka, a town in Ishikawa prefecture has been renowned for its fine lacquerware for 450 years, using methods that were developed during the Edo period.

Compostion and care

A gilded lacquerware object such as the Natsume Negoro should last for a lifetime and more, if some precautions are taken with its care.

Before you use this for the first time, rinse carefully in lukewarm water, and dry immediately with a very soft cloth. Only wash this is in plain water. Do not use dishwashing detergent. Always dry immediately after washing with a soft cloth. Do not leave immersed in water.

Lacquerware has a certain odor when it is brand new. This will dissipate with time. Place Natsume Kuro in an airy location to make the odor fade faster.

Keep all fine lacquerware out of direct sunlight.

With proper care, your Natsume Negoro will become a treasured family heirloom, to pass down through the generations.

Handcrafted in Japan. The wood and lacquer are both from Japanese sources.

Bento&co is happy to be able to share with you our passion for traditional japanese craftmanship.

Please read through the Terms and Conditions of Sale and Shipping and Delivery pages prior to placing an order. The import of a product from Japan may be subject to taxes and to custom fees in the country of delivery.