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Japanese Lacquer Box with Fine Maki-e Decoration Meiji Period

Offered by: Tishu

Description
A lacquered wood box with lid from Japan circa 19th century Meiji Period. The finely decorated box was used to store paper slips and small documents on the desk. It is overall finished with black lacquer (kuro) outside and on the top surface of the lid, there are three Komainu, (sometimes known as Shishi or Japanese lions) frolicking and forming a circle in lively motion. Komainu are vey auspicious animals in Japanese cultures in both Shinto and Buddhism tradition. Originally from China, these animals symbolizes guardians to ward off evil spirits. Hiramaki-e was used in combination with carving and combing to render the lions with various surface textures. A gilt border with an slight angle was given to the lid and even the thin band is decorated with miniature floral scrolls. The interior of the box was finished in a dense nashiji. Underneath the lid, a cluster of peonies open lavishly by two gentle mounts. Takamaki-e (high relief) in both gold and silver were used to depicts the plants. Gold kirigane was used on the mount. The overall effect is a masterful work full of details and visually striking.

More Information

Origin:	Japan
Period:	19th Century
Materials:	wood lacquer
Condition:	Good. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor wear on the corner, interior and base expected from the age, two small nicks on the inner edge of the lid as shown. Possible small lost of gilt on the stem of one peony. All shown in the detail photos.
Creation Date:	19th century
Styles / Movements:	Bespoke, Asian, Traditional
Patterns:	Animal/Insects, Asian/Oriental, Handmade
Incollect Reference #:	403989

Dimensions

W.	9 in;	H.	2 in;	D.	9.8 in;
W.	22.86 cm;	H.	5.08 cm;	D.	24.89 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