Japanese Maki-e Lacquer Shodai (Book Stand / Display Table), c. Late Meiji to Taisho Period

Story

Crafted during a golden age of Japanese export and domestic art, this stand depicts a nostalgic, idealized rural landscape. The flying cranes symbolize longevity and peace, transforming a functional piece of furniture into a poetic blessing for the home.

Maker / Origin

While unsigned, this piece is the work of a highly skilled lacquer workshop active during the late Meiji or Taisho eras. These artisans spent years mastering the temperamental sap of the toxic Urushi tree, applying it in dozens of microscopic layers in dust-free rooms to achieve a mirror-like finish.

Condition & Value

The lacquer shows light surface scratching and minor wear consistent with age, particularly along the edges of the removable tray. There are no major chips, cracks, or lifting of the lacquer layers visible, which is excellent as dry environments often cause wood shrinkage and lacquer splitting.