Fubako 文箱 (box for letters and papers) - Lacquer - Japan...

An elegant, rectangular lacquer fubako 文箱 (box for letters and papers) with a well-fitted lid with rounded corners and overhanging sides. Executed with black lacquer decorated with an intricate takamaki-e 高蒔絵 (high-relief lacquer design) of gold depicting a blooming plum tree growing from some rocks. Hanging on the tree a so-called tanzaku - a traditional poem paper slip. The design continues on the sides of the cover. The long sides have mokkô-shaped grips surrounding silver cord rings shaped like peony flowers with long orange silk cords ending in decorative tassels. The interior featuring dense reddish nashiji 梨子地 (sprinkled gold lacquer) finished with golden fundame rims 粉溜地 (matt lacquer) and a motif of a crescent moon. Dimensions: Height 5.8 cm, Length 22 cm, Depth 8.2 cm. Period: Japan - Late Edo period (First half 19th century). Considering its age the box is in a very good original condition. Please look at the photos for a clear condition reference. Including wooden tomobako 供箱 (storage box).

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