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Antique Japanese Lacquered Incense Box Kobako with MOP Inlays

Offered by: Tishu

Description
An old Japanese lacquered small box likely used to contain incense powder called Kobako, circa Edo period (17-18th century). The rectangular form box with a fitted lid features rounded corners and a subtle conforming inner line framing the designs. The surface was decorated with Hiramakie in overall Sayagata pattern, the interlocking of eternal Manji symbols in Buddhism. On top of that, there are scattered mon symbols in three distinct patterns: kiku, flowering paulownia, and a three turning comma done with mother-of pearl inlays. The interior was profusely decorated with hiramaki-e, a scene with a couple on a sailing boat in a storming ocean, likely from the Tale and Genji. There rim was protected with a heavy metal either lead or pewter.
Provenance: From the British collection of Soame Jenyns. From 1927 to 1931 he was in the Hong Kong civil service, after which he joined the British Museum where, except for secondment to the Admiralty during the war, he remained until 1968. He was on the Committee of the Royal Academy Exhibition, 1935-1936. He was Deputy Keeper of the Department of Oriental Antiquities 1950 to 1968. Between 1954 and 1972 he made gifts of Chinese porcelain to the Museum.

More Information

Origin:	Japan
Period:	18th Century
Materials:	lacquered wood with MOP inlays
Condition:	Good. Wear consistent with aged patina throughout, mellow and beautiful. There are overall fine scratches, small nicks, minute losses and metal oxidation as expected. Heavy rubbing and noticeable bumps on the base as shown.
Creation Date:	17-18th century
Styles / Movements:	Bespoke, Asian, Traditional
Patterns:	Abstract, Asian/Oriental, Florals/Botanical, Geometric, Handmade
Incollect Reference #:	499026

Dimensions

W.	2.8 in;	H.	1.6 in;	D.	3.5 in;
W.	7.11 cm;	H.	4.06 cm;	D.	8.89 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

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