Tea Powder Container: Natsume, Kiri-awase (Kingfisher)

A serene natsume that appears only in tea settings

The Natsume Kiri-awase-guchi Kingfisher is a lacquer tea caddy made specifically for use in tea gatherings.
It is intended to temporarily hold matcha during preparation and is not designed for long-term storage of tea leaves or powdered tea.

By being used only within the limited context of tea, this natsume helps align gestures and atmosphere, naturally creating a sense of quiet concentration. The kingfisher motif, painted on a calm tame ground, does not assert itself; instead, it gently adds a subtle accent to a single bowl of tea.

A quiet opening and closing formed by the kiri-awase-guchi structure

This natsume features a kiri-awase-guchi construction, in which the body is precisely divided into upper and lower parts, creating an extremely small contact area between lid and body.
When the cut edges align perfectly, the opening and closing motion settles quietly, without disturbing the flow of movement during tea preparation.

The surface feels soft in the hand and naturally conforms to the fingers, allowing the tool to remain unobtrusive—present, yet never dominant.

Handcraft demanding precision in both joint and decoration

Natsume with a kiri-awase-guchi structure require exceptional accuracy, as the upper and lower sections must align precisely. This increases the number of lacquer layers and adds complexity to the process.
Because the joint area is so small, even slight unevenness in lacquer thickness or minimal distortion directly affects the feel of opening and closing.

In addition, the kingfisher motif must be executed with careful attention alongside the lacquer work, maintaining balance between the design and the overall form. This natsume embodies the balance of precision and expression that can only be achieved through patient handcraft.

Recommended for

• Those who wish to enjoy tea time with care and intention
• Those who value the quiet gestures unique to kiri-awase-guchi natsume
• Those seeking tea utensils that balance decorative expression with function

This item may not be suitable for users who require dishwasher or microwave compatibility.