178 - CHAHIRA ISSAI III: A FINE INLAID LACQUER ‘HERMIT CRABS AND MARINE LIFE’ NATSUME (TEA CADDY)

CHAHIRA ISSAI III: A FINE INLAID LACQUER ‘HERMIT CRABS AND MARINE LIFE’ NATSUME (TEA CADDY) By Chahira Issai III, signed Issai Japan, 2024, Reiwa period (2019–present) Of traditional rounded form with an inrobuta (flush-fitting) cover, the lustrous roiro ground exquisitely decorated in iro-e takamaki-e and hiramaki-e, enriched with finely sprinkled gold kinpun, gold flakes, and iridescent aogai (mother-of-pearl) inlay. The cover depicts a large hermit crab emerging from an intricately detailed spiral shell, its vivid red claws and delicate antennae contrasting strikingly with the shimmering gold-sprinkled ground, above a sweeping band of silver waves. The composition continues around the sides with four smaller hermit crabs, their intricately patterned shells rendered in contrasting colors and textures, amid gently undulating waves. The lower section is further adorned with a large jellyfish and a starfish, and the interior of the cover is decorated with two iridescent conch shells against a deep roiro ground. Signed to the underside ISSAI. HEIGHT 6.7 cm Condition: Excellent condition. With the original wood tomobako (storage box), inscribed Kinoe-tatsu, Yadokari, Issai, with seal, 甲辰 やどかり 一斎 [Year of the Wood Dragon, corresponding to 2024, Hermit Crab, Issai]. Chahira Issai III is the third-generation head of the distinguished Chahira Issai lacquer workshop, succeeding his father, Chahira Issai II, and inheriting the artist name in 2013. Continuing the artistic legacy established by his grandfather and father, he specializes in refined lacquer techniques, combining traditional craftsmanship with inventive compositions and intricate decorative effects. His works have been presented in exhibitions in Japan and internationally, including at Mitsukoshi in Hiroshima in 2025, reflecting the continued recognition of the Chahira Issai lineage in contemporary Japanese lacquer art.