New, unused Hida Shunkururi tea scoop with artist's signature.

◎A masterpiece expressing wabi-sabi with its beautiful lacquer finish.
Purchased about 30 years ago, it has been stored unused.
There is the artist's seal, but I cannot decipher it.
Length: 18.2cm

◎Hida Shunkei lacquerware refers to traditional lacquerware made in the Takayama region of Gifu Prefecture, characterized by its transparent lacquer finish that brings out the wood grain. It is a general term for lacquerware techniques and products that are designated as national traditional crafts.
High-quality wood is coated with layers of transparent, pale golden lacquer, creating vessels that are lightweight, durable, and possess an elegant sheen. They are used for tea ceremony utensils, everyday tableware, and interior decor.
The characteristic of Hida Shunkei lies in the harmony created by the rustic beauty of the natural wood grain and the transparent, deep hues unique to the suk urushi (transparent lacquer) finish.
The transparent, deep colors that define Hida Shunkei are achieved through suk urushi, a closely guarded secret that each lacquer artist develops through their own unique methods. Consequently, the hues vary subtly from one artist to another.