Description:

East Asia, Japan, early Showa era, ca. 1930s CE. This exquisite suzuri-bako, or writing box, is crafted from lacquered wood and features intricate maki-e inlay and lacquer techniques. The rectangular lid is adorned with frogs, their slightly raised (takamaki-e) bodies gilt in gold and silver, with nacre shell inlay for the eyes. The interior and exterior base showcase a glittering nashiji, with iron pigment flakes instead of gold, achieving the same splendid stippled effect. The underside bears a signature in gold characters, possibly translated as "Kiyohide," identifying an unidentified maker. Historically, suzuri-bako were essential for Japanese scholars and calligraphers to store writing tools, becoming highly decorative during the Edo and Meiji periods, often reflecting the status and taste of their owners. Size: 10.5" L x 7.5" W x 3" H (26.7 cm x 19 cm x 7.6 cm); gold quality: 8% to 12%; silver quality: 10%

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection

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#189987

    Condition:
  • Hairline crack encircling the exterior rim of lid, and a narrow end rim panel is reattached to the lid with small gap and break line visible on the interior. This repair does not affect the frog motif. Overall gorgeous and unique pattern! Signed on the base.

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November 15, 2024 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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