Japanese Togidashi and Taka-maki-e Lacquer Bunko (Document Box)

Story

Crafted in 19th-century Japan, this masterwork hid its fiercest secrets within: opening the serene, blossoming exterior reveals an inner tray alive with a mythical shishi lion and a celestial dragon rendered in radiant gold.

Maker / Origin

While unsigned, this box represents the elite lacquer ateliers of Kyoto or Tokyo active during the late Edo to Meiji transition. Master lacquerers (urushi-shi) spent generations refining secret recipes of metallic powders, charcoal polishes, and layered sap to supply daimyo estates and wealthy connoisseurs.

Condition & Value

The interior lacquer, dense nashiji gold ground, and high-relief taka-maki-e remain exceptionally crisp and vibrant. The exterior black lacquer displays expected fine surface scratches and minor edge wear consistent with 19th-century age. The wooden tomobako shows light age toning and shrinkage splits.