Japanese Lacquered Box, late 19th century

A late 19th century Japanese lacquered box, showcasing the refined artistry of the Meiji period during a time of renewed global appreciation for Japanese craft. The deep, lustrous finish and intricate surface decoration reflect a tradition perfected over millennia, where natural resin is transformed into a vessel of poetic beauty and remarkable resilience.

Circa 1880, this original period piece was created during an era of significant artistic revival, when traditional masters blended ancient techniques with a new, international sophistication.

Finished in natural urushi lacquer over a wooden base, featuring delicate gold maki-e or shell inlays that remain vibrant and durable through time. Rooted in the Shikki tradition, this box embodies the Japanese mastery of surface decoration and the enduring harmony between functional objects and the natural world.