Fine Japanese Suzuribako Box with Storage Box and Provenance

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Fine Japanese Suzuribako Box with Storage Box and Provenance

$8,000List Price

About the Item

A striking and finely lacquered Suzuribako (writing box) with ink stone and bronze waterdrop from Japan circa late Meiji to early Taisho period (1900-1920s). Among a US collection purchased from a Christie's sale in 1997, the suzuribako has rounded corners and features a bold graphic design that is clearly influenced by the Rinpa style, yet the box appears unexpected modern and "Art Deco". Surrounding the bright red filed in the center that was intentionally left empty are thick bands of clouds formed by gold and silver foil inlay, and a high relief (Takamaki-e) nashiji field with large gold and silver square kirigane. On the lower portion, two raden (mother of pearl) cranes were set to a hill of textured pewter with green pines. Emphasizing the smooth lines that demarcate the borders of difference spaces, there is a masterful sense of spatial play at work. The bands spill down to the side in a continuous pattern, in keeping with the gentle curves of the overall appearance. The interior features a nashiji background with scrolling waves patterns in silver, subtle yet full of motions. A gilt bronze mizuire (waterdrop) and an ink stone befit the box. A kiri tomobako (wood storage box) comes with the suzuribako. It has a paper label with ink Kanji writing (roughly translated as "Red lacquer with Gold and Silver Maki-e Suzuribako") indicating the title with a line of poem that is not clear to read anymore. The piece was purchased from Christie's sale8732 Japanese Work of Art in 1997. An original invoice accompanies the piece.

Dimensions:
Height: 2.125 in (5.4 cm)Width: 8.85 in (22.48 cm)Depth: 10 in (25.4 cm)
Style:
Japonisme (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques:
Bronze,Lacquer,Stone,Wood
Place of Origin:
Japan
Period:
Early 20th Century
Date of Manufacture:
1900s-1920s
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use. Overall fine condition with some minor surface wear and patina. Oxidation on the silver foil as expected. Two minute scrapes on the bottom of the inner box with the ink stone touches, invisible otherwise.
Seller Location:
Atlanta, GA
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU945020750662

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