Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
An exquisite Japanese black lacquer covered bowl or jar featuring delicate gold maki-e decoration of flowering cherry branches (sakura). The compressed globular body rests on a flared foot, with gold powder and foil details painted over a deep, lustrous urushi lacquer base.
Story
Crafted in late 19th-century Japan during the Meiji era, this vessel showcases urushi lacquer sprinkled with gold dust. Japanese lacquerware like this captivated Western collectors during the Meiji period's export boom.
Maker / Origin
During the Meiji restoration, skilled lacquer artisans previously supported by samurai patrons pivoted to international export markets. Master lacquerers spent months applying dozens of micro-thin layers of toxic urushi tree sap, curing each in humid chambers before painting gold powder details.
Condition & Value
Shows light surface wear and minor rubbing to the gold lacquer details along high points and the foot rim, consistent with age. Overall intact with its original lid and finial present.
Full Research
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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.