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Japanese Lacquer Ryoshibako Document Box Meiji Period

Offered by: Tishu

Description
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.

More Information

Origin:	Japan
Period:	19th Century
Materials:	Lacquered wood
Condition:	Good. Fine condition with expected minor contact wear on the corner and small scratches on the base. Small areas of fundame restorations for details see description and photos.
Creation Date:	19th century
Styles / Movements:	Asian, Traditional
Patterns:	Asian/Oriental, Florals/Botanical
Incollect Reference #:	399064

Dimensions

W.	13 in;	H.	6.5 in;	D.	16.75 in;
W.	33.02 cm;	H.	16.51 cm;	D.	42.55 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