A BLACK AND GOLD LACQUER NATSUME (TEA CADDY) WITH A WEEPING WILLOW (YANAGI) Japan, Showa period (1926-1989) Of typical form with a flush-fitting cover, the exterior bearing a glossy roiro ground finely decorated in gold takamaki-e and kirikane to depict a willow tree growing from the base of the tea caddy to the top of the cover. The interior of roiro with gold fundame edges. HEIGHT 7.5 cm Condition: Excellent condition with minor wear. Provenance: Dutch collection. With a wood tomobako signed by Tada Keikan (1935-?) and a Japanese pamphlet describing the accomplishments of the artist. Auction comparison: Compare a related black and gold lacquer natsume with a weeping willow by Hirata Shoichi, also dated Showa period, at Zacke, Fine Japanese Art, 27 May 2022, Vienna, lot 123 ( sold for 1,643 EUR ).