Silver Grass Under the Moon Natsume Matcha Container

A full moon glows above silver grass, capturing the stillness of autumn and the quiet movement of the breeze. This natsume matcha container, crafted by maki-e artist Hariya Masayuki, captures that scene with luminous detail.

Acrylic was chosen for the way it reveals the design when filled with matcha. A mound of tea powder becomes a gentle hill, upon which silver grass (susuki in Japanese) appears to ripple and the moon seems to float above—a landscape inspired by traditional Japanese painting.

The design employs the decorative lacquerware techniques of both hira maki-e and harikiri. The hira maki-e technique involves painting patterns in lacquer, sprinkling gold or silver powder before it hardens, then coating with clear lacquer and polishing to create a smooth, luminous surface. This method gives the decoration its shimmering presence. The harikiri technique, in which lines are incised with a fine needle-like tool, is used for the silver grass, capturing its rhythm and delicacy.

From the exterior, the moon appears silver, while from within, it glows golden. The delicate sparkle of the grass tips evokes dewdrops, rendered with silver powder to evoke the soft glow of moonlight. Hariya notes that he chose the materials with the shifting light of the moon in mind, aiming to suggest the brilliance of a midnight sky.

By layering traditional methods onto a modern medium, Hariya pursues new expressions of maki-e. This natsume is a refined work that brings a breath of freshness to the world of tea.

Hariya Masayuki

Hariya Masayuki is a maki-e artist specializing in Yamanaka lacquerware. Raised in a family of artisans, Hariya grew up surrounded by the tools and materials of the trade. This environment gave him an early and intimate familiarity with the world of craftsmanship. In his late teens, he encountered the works of Japan’s designated Holders of Important Intangible Cultural Heritage, such as Matsuda Gonroku and Terai Naoji, at a museum in Kanazawa prefecture, an experience that sparked his lifelong fascination with maki-e. 

Hariya faithfully preserves traditional techniques, while also incorporating modern materials and ideas. In doing so, he expands lacquer art beyond its conventional boundaries and opens up new creative possibilities.

Laque de Yamanaka

La laque de Yamanaka, produite dans le district de Yamanaka Onsen à Kaga, dans la préfecture d'Ishikawa, possède une riche histoire de plus de 450 ans. Elle se caractérise par l'harmonie du grain naturel du bois et le raffinement de ses finitions. maki-e technique où des poudres d'or, d'argent ou de couleur sont délicatement saupoudrées pour créer des motifs élégants.

La laque Yamanaka est transformée en une grande variété d'articles, notamment des baguettes, des bols, des assiettes, des plateaux, des cuillères, des louches et Natsume Boîtes à thé. Réputées pour leur légèreté, leur durabilité et leur raffinement, elles sont souvent laquées de noir et de vermillon.

La laque de Yamanaka continue d'évoluer, alliant tradition intemporelle et esthétique moderne pour s'adapter aux modes de vie contemporains.