Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A magnificent 37 cm Japanese Wajima-nuri lacquer decorative charger (kazari-zara) rendered in deep, mirror-black urushi. It features high-relief gold and silver maki-e (taka-maki-e) depicting a red-crowned crane perched upon a coastal rock beneath drifting clouds and a crescent moon.
Story
Born in the renowned lacquer workshops of Ishikawa, this charger unites two master artisans to capture the crane—an enduring symbol of longevity—standing solitary under a glowing crescent moon.
Maker / Origin
This work represents a classic Wajima collaboration between Nurishi Nakajima Chuhei (塗師 中島忠平), who built the durable, multi-layered urushi foundation, and Maki-e artist Ryuson (蒔絵師 柳村), who executed the intricate gold powder relief.
Condition & Value
The lacquer surface retains an exceptional deep gloss mirror finish with crisp, unworn gold relief and brilliant cinnabar pigment on the crane's crown; the paulownia tomobako is clean and intact with clear signatures and inspection label. Superb condition strongly supports top-tier valuation.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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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.