A kingfisher takes aim at a school of small fish darting through shallow water on Se, a wooden tea caddy by artist Akihiro Ueno. Crafted using the traditional chinkin technique, the fine design is etched into the lacquered wood and inlaid with gold. The artist paid special attention to capturing the iridescent metallic luster of the bird's feathers and the lively detail in its eyes.
Natsume are classic wooden containers traditionally used to hold powdered green tea in the Japanese tea ceremony. Named for their subtle shape resembling the jujube fruit, these caddies serve as both functional tools and canvases for master craftspeople. This piece brings a quiet moment of nature into a refined traditional object.
This work is an unused exhibition piece, sold as a single, one-of-a-kind item. It is currently on display at the Kanazawa Station exhibition area, so shipping will take place after the display ends in late February 2026. Shipping costs will be arranged separately, with an estimated base cost of around 1,000 yen depending on the final destination.
Wooden box titled “Shallow Waters,” by Akihiro Ueno. The chinkin design depicts a kingfisher poised to target a school of small fish passing through shallow water, with attention to the metallic sheen of its feathers and the expression of its eyes. One-of-a-kind display piece.
