Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
An exquisite hexagonal lidded box, likely designed for presenting high-grade traditional sweets or small treasures. It features hand-painted courtly scenes in the classic Yamato-e style, framed by heavily textured, raised gilt borders with traditional honeycomb patterns. The interior is finished with a delicate silver-flecked paper lining, and the lid is secured with original purple silk cord ties.
Story
Created during a time of intense nostalgic revival, this box depicts scenes from the 11th-century literary masterpiece 'The Tale of Genji'. It allowed wealthy early 20th-century hosts to serve guests with the romance of ancient imperial court life.
Maker / Origin
While the specific workshop remains anonymous, this piece represents the highly skilled 'Urushi' (lacquer) and 'Washi' (papercraft) artisans of Kyoto or Tokyo. These workshops specialized in luxury packaging and domestic presentation wares, blending ancient decorative arts with Meiji-era commercial refinement.
Condition & Value
The box is in remarkably good antique condition. There is minor rubbing and light oxidation to the gilt borders, along with faint staining on the paper panels consistent with age. The interior silver-flecked lining is clean, and the original silk ties are intact, which is highly unusual.
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.