23502 Living National Treasure Kuroda Tatsuaki (5 lacquered zelkova tea trays)

Height 2.5cm Diameter 13.5cm

Born in Kyoto Prefecture. Utilizing lacquer arts such as dry lacquer and mother-of-pearl in addition to woodworking such as carving and joinery, Kuroda Tatsuaki established his own profound style and was designated a Living National Treasure in 1970 (Showa 45) for his "woodworking" work. This is a simple vessel made of zelkova wood with lacquer applied, but this piece, which makes use of the beautiful wood grain as a design, has a brilliance that is not inferior to works of gold lacquer, and is truly a work of art that will be passed down to future generations.