Three Dragonflies Raden Inlay Futaoki – Takaoka Lacquerware | Musashigawa Kobo

This refined Three Dragonflies (三匹蜻蛉) futaoki features delicate Raden Inlay (螺鈿) created by Musashigawa Kobo (武蔵川工房) in the tradition of Takaoka Lacquerware (Takaoka Shikki).

Three dragonflies are depicted in shimmering Raden Inlay, catching the light beautifully and creating subtle changes in color and brilliance depending on the viewing angle.

The dragonfly (tonbo) is a familiar motif in Japanese art and seasonal design. Its graceful appearance is especially evocative of late summer and early autumn, bringing a subtle sense of the changing season into the tea room.

Raden Inlay is a traditional Japanese decorative technique in which thin pieces of iridescent shell are carefully cut and inlaid into the surface. The technique brings an elegant luminosity to the three dragonflies while showcasing the fine craftsmanship associated with Takaoka lacquerware.

In Chanoyu, a futaoki is used as a rest for the lid of the kama (iron kettle) and for the hishaku (bamboo ladle). This piece combines practical function with the refined decorative beauty of traditional Japanese craftsmanship.

Workshop: Musashigawa Kobo (武蔵川工房)
Type: Futaoki (Lid Rest)
Design: Three Dragonflies (三匹蜻蛉)
Technique: Raden Inlay (螺鈿)
Craft: Takaoka Lacquerware (Takaoka Shikki)
Season: Late Summer / Early Autumn
Use: Japanese Tea Ceremony / Chanoyu
Made in: Takaoka, Toyama, Japan