As if in metamorphosis, innumerable coats of black lacquer break through the vermillion lacquer exterior using the techniques of negoronuri. Each piece of the tea set is elegantly carved using the spinning lathe and hand-forged wrought iron tools. Their unique construction betrays the traditional profile of the tea set; Murase’s innovations elevate a form known for the sculptural mastery required to create lacquerwares of such subtle beauty. The style of the tea set emulates those wares used to celebrate the Japanese new year; the deep red is a symbol of prosperity and celebration.