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Unique Japanese Lacquered Maki-e Suzuribako with Woven Bamboo Cover

Offered by: Tishu

Description
This Japanese suzuribako (ink box) of late Meiji Period (circa end of 19th century) is uncommon with its surface covered with woven basketry in chevron pattern. Once opened, the viewer is struck with a splendid Maki-e interior decoration in sharp contrast with the plain exterior. With masterful composition and in great and fine details, the decoration under the cover depicts a tranquil nocturnal scenery. Under a full moon among shifting clouds, a fenced thatched roof hut sits under a blooming camellia tree behind rock outcrops by the edge of the water. Hira and takamaki-e were used effectively with kirigane and silver inlays to create a poetic and dimensional image. The workmanship is superb, showing a full mastery of the techniques. The motif continues to the other side of the interior with a brush compartment that features two knotty pines on rocks, and a tray for a removable ink stone and a silver handled waterdrop (suiteki). Extraordinarily, the suzuibako retains a set of five writing instrument in gold lacquer finish and silver ornament. This includes a matching set of two brush pens, a paper knife and a paper pricker and an ink stick inscribed Kyukyodo, which was founded in 1663 and was the official stationer supplier to the imperial house from 1891 to 1945. It is uncommon for a suzuribako to retain its writing accoutrement. The rest of the interior and the base were finished in a dense "pear-skin" nashiji. The rim of the box is lined with a metal rim (appears to be zinc) that shows even aged patina.
The original tomobako storage box measures 10.5" x 8.5" x 4" and it retains two paper labels in Kanji indicating its content. It is translated as "Suzuribako with woven surface; Rock over Waves Internal Maki-e on Nashji background". There is also a red cotton pad for interior protection and a brocade wrapping cloth. A rare and complete set.

More Information

Origin:	Japan
Period:	19th Century
Materials:	Lacquered wood, ink stone, silver
Condition:	Good. Fine condition with minor wear mostly on the base. Lid is very slightly warped. Aged patina and silver oxidation as expected. Tomobako with overall wear due to age.
Creation Date:	late 19th century
Styles / Movements:	Bespoke, Asian, Traditional
Patterns:	Asian/Oriental, Geometric, Handmade
Incollect Reference #:	518637

Dimensions

W.	7.25 in;	H.	1.75 in;	D.	9.25 in;
W.	18.42 cm;	H.	4.45 cm;	D.	23.5 cm;

Message from Seller:

Our collection ranges from Neolithic Art to 20th century collectible art and design. It spans 5000 thousand years of history and crosses many civilizations and cultures. Our aesthetic strongholds are Mid-century studio design, Japanese and Korean art, Asian Textile Art and Contemporary Aboriginal Art. The diversity is united behind our singular vision to seek for timeless beauty and driven purely by our passion