Japanese Lacquered Natsume Tea Box

Tebako box with three compartments in golden and nashi-ji lacquer, decorated with golden, red, and kirigane lacquer, golden persimmon tree leaves, among rocks. The compartments are of increasing size from the top. The decoration is in continuity. Persimmon has been cultivated in southern China for more than 2500 years and is believed to have been introduced to Japan in the 8th century. The veneer is a tree with very hard wood, similar to ebony. According to a legend, one specimen survived the atomic bombing of Nagasaki on August 9, 1945, close to the epicenter. It is therefore in Japan a symbol of strength and longevity. It is also the national fruit of the country. It is eaten as a traditional dish during New Year's Day celebrations. Tebako literally means "portable box...

Kobako in nashiji lacquer of square shape with a hira maki-e décor of a blossoming cherry tree. Both of the four sides are adorned with golden lacquer cherry flowers, represented i...

Imposing kobako in nashiji lacquer on a black ground, decorated with a motif imitating wood grain. The lid is adorned with an ikebana basket (hanakago) containing a bouquet of remark...

Suzuribako box (empty) in black lacquer. Gold maki-e decoration of a river bordered by peonies, one with red highlights. The edges of the lid are in gold lacquer. Nashi-ji interior.

A black lacquer tebako (hand box) with maki-e decoration and silver trim, circa late 19th century, Meiji period. The surface of the lid features a Rinpa style maki-e paint depicting ...

19th Century Japanese inro with 3 lacquered wooden compartments, 63 x 70 x 22 mm in size. Weight 39.1 g. Additional information: Material: Lacquered ...

This is a box for the matcha powder using while tea ceremony in Japan. It is called 'Natsume'. It is made with wood. The design is plums (Japanese apricot 'UME') and it is hand paint...

Antique Japanese lacquer jewelry box from the late 19th century decorated with flowers and foliage, 8 cm high for a length of 21 c...