Atlanta Decorative Boxes

A Japanese black lacquer box with mother of pearl inlays circa early 20th century, end of Meiji period. It was likely to be used to store inkstone or other scholarly items. The piece displays several interesting characteristics that appear puzzling initially. First, the form is not typical Japanese, but more Chinese and Korean, with its scalloped base. Second, the decoration of MOP inlays also suggests a Korean and Chinese affiliation, especially with the linear borders and the scrolling cloud patters on the sides of the box. These two observations suggest that the box may be from Ryukyu Island instead of Japanese mainland. Third, strikingly in the center of the cover, a bold quarterly floral pattern outlined with MOP was filled with a striking mottled red lacquer using tsugaru nuri...

Continental, early 20th century. A antique oval box made of brass and other metals. The box has a basketweave pattern to the exterior and an affixed basalt plaque to the top. The pl...

A French painted tôle box from the late 19th century, with wood grain patterns and goldenrod accents. Created in France during the last decade of the 19th century, this tôle box feat...