Japanese Lacquer Ryoshibako Document Box Meiji Period

A large Japanese lacquer box with elaborate Maki-e design from Meiji period (mid-late 19th century). The generous size of the box was reserved for paper document and called Ryoshibako in Japanese. The cover of the lid is decorated with a tour-de-force range of techniques: including low and high relief Maki-e (known as Hiramaki-e and takamaki-e respectively) and gold leaf fundame. Masterfully, the artisan used these approaches to depict a gorgeous flower cart with flowing ribbons. The cart carries a large basket with the most exuberant floral arrangement, showcasing peonies, chrysanthemums, branches of plum blossom, hibiscus, and Japanese irises. The interior of the lid was given an equal if not more poetic rendition, this time, of a classic Japanese scenery. A flowing river is anchored by rock outcrops and pine trees frame the viewpoint. Flocks of crane fly in the sky and two turtles sun themselves by the bank. The side of the box was all decorated with elaborate floral arrangement. The background Nashiji surface has a reddish glow to mimic the pear skin, with the outside mellowed into a beautiful patina of a pleasing brown hue, compared to the much shinier interior.
A couple of small restoration on the fundame gold foil, including a small area on a spoke of the wheel, also on the petal of a flower on the side of the box. See detail images as the repair area has a slightly more shining gold color.
This Ryoshibako is, with no doubt, was crafted by a master. From the overall composition to the attention to details on the smallest scale are just astounding. The stunning condition suggests that it was cherished with utmost care.