Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
An exquisite tabletop shodana (cabinet) featuring a dark, beautifully grained wood exterior with gold maki-e lacquer panels. Opening the double doors reveals a stunning interior of six drawers decorated with intricate chrysanthemum marquetry and flying cranes, showcasing the pinnacle of late 19th-century Japanese decorative arts.
Story
Created during the Meiji era, this cabinet was designed to dazzle Western collectors who were obsessed with Japonisme. The dramatic contrast between the quiet exterior and the explosive gold interior was meant to surprise and delight.
Maker / Origin
While unsigned, this piece was crafted by highly skilled artisans in specialized workshops, likely in Yokohama or Kyoto. These workshops combined traditional lacquer techniques with wood marquetry (yosegi-zaiku) to create luxury goods specifically tailored for the international export market.
Condition & Value
The cabinet appears to be in excellent antique condition with minimal wear to the lacquer. The interior marquetry retains vibrant color contrast, and the original metal hardware is intact. Excellent preservation of the delicate gold lacquer commands a premium.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
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.