Japanese Lacquered Maki-e Fubako with Cranes Edo Period
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Description
A Japanese lacquered wood fubako with fine maki-e decoration (Fubako is a box used to store document or small scroll painting), circa 18th century Edo period. The rectangular box features a deep lipped lid with slightly rounded corners, a conforming lower box that is almost entirely covered by the lid which has two bronze medallion rings with tasseled silk ties. The surface decoration of this fubako is of superb craftsmanship and visually arresting. On a black background sparsely sprinkled with shimmering gold powder, the pictorial imagery centers on a flock of seven cranes on a coastal landscape. Three in flights, four perching ashore, the dimensional composition is classic and often found in Japanese painting from Edo period. Each crane was depicted in a vivid unique motion, using relief takamaki-e and gold fundame for highlight. The crowns of the crane were all dotted in red, a distinct character of Japanese Crane (Grus Japonensis), which are one of the most beloved birds in Asia and symbol of longevity. The ocean waves were beautifully rendered in hiramaki-e with gold powder and combed silver lines. Rocks in takamaki-e with gold kirigane form the bottom anchor, representing the shoreline and it continues to the end of the lid. On the sides, the scenery extends and bundles of large sea grasses with seeds sway in the wind. The two bronze medallion rings were silvered and appear original. The interior was finished in a dense nashiji and all the trims in gold fundame. Accompany with this fubako is an old label indicating the age of the box which we agree with.
Examining the fubako, it is evident that it was well used and of its original condition. A wonderful piece of Japanese lacquer art. -
More Information
Origin: Japan Period: 18th Century Materials: lacquered wood Condition: Good. Original antique condition with patina, including small dings on the rim and minor rubbing on the gold maki-e. light shelf wear on the bottom with residues of old paper ticker. Creation Date: 18th century Styles / Movements: Bespoke, Asian, Traditional Patterns: Animal/Insects, Asian/Oriental, Handmade Incollect Reference #: 628018 -
Dimensions
W. 11.5 in; H. 3.25 in; D. 4.75 in; W. 29.21 cm; H. 8.26 cm; D. 12.07 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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