Japanese Lacquerware Maki-e Five-Tiered Jubako with Stand and Carrying Box

Story

During the Japanese New Year, families gather to eat symbolic foods from these tiered boxes. The stacked design represents the piling up of good fortune and happiness for the coming year. This specific set, with its rare matching stand, was made for an affluent household to showcase their wealth during seasonal feasts.

Maker / Origin

While unsigned, this set was produced by highly skilled lacquer artisans (urushi-gei) in one of Japan's historic lacquer centers, such as Wajima or Kyoto. These craftsmen spent years mastering the handling of toxic tree sap to create durable, glass-like finishes that could survive generations of use.

Condition & Value

The lacquer appears to be in remarkably good condition with vibrant gold maki-e. There is minor expected wear along the rims, corners, and joints where the tiers stack, which is typical for functional lacquerware of this age.