Japanese writting set in waqasa lacquer including bundai ryoshibako and fudebako

Set of bundai, ryoshibako and fudebako in wakasa lacquer with an old rose background and black traditional Japanese patterns. The saya pattern (or sayagata) is composed by Chinese svastikas. This symbol linked to Buddhism, mean intelligence, power and peace. It is a good omen sign. The kanoko pattern reminds stains on fawn back. The sakura (cherry blossom) pattern is emblematic of Japan. The blossoming in a short time marks spring beginning and is a symbol of renewal and ephemeral beauty. There are also traces of calligraphy brush, in reference to the function of the objects. Bundai is a low table used to put books or scrolls and, later, to write. Rectangular ryoshibako (letter and document box) with a slightly domed Fudebako (pencil case) of rectangular format very narrow in its length with two rounded corners, flat cover. Wakasa lacquerware...

Chinese altar also used as console or side table. Made of exotic hard wood, probably zitan, with a dark patina. It features voluptuous flared edges and spandrels carved in cloud moti...

With intricate construction and exquisite decoration, this fine tabletop writing set is a masterpiece of Japanese lacquerware. The matching set includes a writing table (bundai) and poem box (tanzaku bako), both decorated with gilt lacquer in the style of takamaki-e and hiramaki-e urushi lacquer. Framed by everted ends, the lacquered table top is masterfully worked, depicting a robed man seated on a veranda within an idyllic mountain-and-water landscape. Swirling clouds drift overhead and pine trees bend towards the sky, formed of raised lacquer (takamaki-e) and mother of pearl inlay (raden). Dark lacquer at the corners imitate metal hardware and the sculptural corner legs are decorated with raised motifs of maple leaves. The writing table includes a matching poem box (tanzaku bako), used for storing paper cards of painted calligraphy and poetry. The lid is similarly decorated in shimmering gilt lacquer with a raised design of a fine carriage beneath a pine tree, draped in cloths and shaded by bamboo blinds...

A small low table with lacquer and intricate mother-of-pearl inlay design from Ryukyu Islands kingdom circa 17-18th century. Ryukyuan kingdom was used to be an independent island cou...