Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
An exquisite Japanese tabletop lacquer cabinet (kodansu) adorned with delicate gold hiramaki-e and takamaki-e lacquer. The exterior features butterfly and blossoming vine motifs across deep black lacquer, opening to reveal six interior drawers brilliantly decorated with floating autumn maple leaves (momiji) on a rich reddish-brown urushi ground.
Story
Crafted in 19th-century Japan, small portable cabinets like this held prized personal treasures, incense, or tea ceremony utensils. Opening the understated black exterior to reveal vibrant autumn leaves was a deliberate, poetic surprise.
Maker / Origin
Produced by skilled Japanese lacquer masters (urushi-shi and maki-e shi) operating in historic craft centers like Kyoto, Kanazawa, or Tokyo. Lacquer artisans often spent months or years creating a single piece, layering natural urushi sap and precious metal dusts.
Condition & Value
Displays honest age-related edge wear, minor chips along the lacquer margins, and fine surface abrasions consistent with 19th-century use. The intact original key and well-preserved interior lacquer significantly support its value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Your first full report is on us.
See sold comps, value drivers, and where to sell. One complimentary report, no card required.
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.