Revival Masterpiece, Mitsui Family Heirloom
Tea Scoop
Rikyū Tea Scoop It is unparalleled that he selected such beautiful bamboo for the promised rustic bamboo. Though the lacquer is wiped off, the scoop tip is rounded, gently curved, not overly high-waisted, and unusually feminine for Rikyū. This is thought to be a middle-aged work predating the emergence of the so-called Rikyū style.
Case
A true slender case, made of beautiful bamboo that seems to blow out powder—this too is feminine. Both the scoop and case show meticulous bamboo selection, suggesting Rikyū carved them with a maiden-work spirit, as inferred from the solemnity of the inscription “Terajisan.” The signature and seal mark “Yaku” (易) also indicates this predates his monk name, Rikyū Kōji.
Accessories
Replacement tube: Inscription by Jushin-sai Sosatsu
Inner box: Paulownia, unfinished wood; Inscription by Sumiyama Yoho
Inside lid: Inscription by Jushin-sai Sosatsu “Rikyu tea scoop with tube. Teratsuji. Left (signature)”
Outer box: Cedar, unfinished wood; Lidded; Inside lid: Inscription by Rokuro-sai Sosatsu
Accompanying Note: Author unknown. “Celebrating Your Excellency’s continued good health, I humbly submit this. Regarding the tea scoop delivered the other day (omitted)… I fear the large order may be delayed. As this was requested by Rikisai of the Western Capital, I hastily send this note (omitted). Attached is a matter concerning Teratsugu. Upon investigation, it appears this is a gift tube from Terada Jirozaemon, a disciple of Rikyu, to his wife (omitted).”
Source
Chōkō Meibutsu-ki (Rikyū Chashaku, Kōtsutsu, Terazawa Visits, Miki Gonta) / 300 Selected Chashaku
Addendum
The anonymous accompanying note clarifies that “Teratsugu” refers to Terada Jirōzaemon, a disciple of Rikyū.
Dimensions
Tea Scoop
Length: 18.0 cm
Width: 0.5–0.95 cm
Thickness: 0.25 cm
Case
Length: 21.6 cm
Diameter: 2.3 cm
