Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
This exquisite portable lacquer chest (temoto-tansu or makura-tansu) features bold, flowing gold grass and botanical lacquerwork (kusa-bana maki-e) set against a rich black urushi background. Small, personal lacquer cabinets like this were used by wealthy samurai or noble families to store valuables, writing implements, or personal keepsakes near the bed or study.
Story
During Japan's Momoyama period, artisans broke away from rigid classical rules to create bold, sprawling floral patterns in gold sprinkled lacquer. Designed as a portable chest for personal treasures, its top handle allowed noble owners to carry their most valuable possessions during travel.
Maker / Origin
Lacquer masters of the late 16th and early 17th centuries belonged to revered family workshops, often commissioned directly by powerful warlords (daimyo) and wealthy merchant clans. Creating a piece like this required harvesting sap from urushi trees, applying dozens of micro-thin coats, and hand-sprinkling gold powder into uncured varnish before meticulously hand-engraving metal fittings.
Condition & Value
Shows honest antique wear including slight rubbing to the lacquer edges, surface craquelure, and darkening of the iron hardware typical for a 400-year-old object. Proper conservation and preservation of the lacquer core preserve high collector value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.