Japanese Gold Maki-e Lacquer Handai (Rice Lidded Container) with Serving Ladle

Story

In feudal Japan, serving rice from a gold-decorated maki-e container was a privilege reserved for wealthy samurai households and elite merchant families. Artisans built up these floral designs by sprinkling real gold dust onto wet lacquer using fine bamboo tubes. Holding an object like this brought a sense of spring courtliness into high-level formal dining settings.

Maker / Origin

Lacquer masters spent years mastering urushi art, working in dust-free rooms to apply dozens of microscopic layers of sap harvested from toxic lacquer trees. Specialized maki-e-shi (gold-sprinkling artists) executed the shimmering botanical motifs using crushed gold flakes and delicate rodent-hair brushes.

Condition & Value

Visually in remarkable condition with vibrant gold maki-e and strong lacquer luster. Minor age-appropriate wear may exist on the rim or interior base. Excellent preservation significantly enhances value.