Japanese tanzaku box in keyaki wood, vine design in raden and maki-e

This keyaki (zelkova) wood tanzaku bako (tanzaku box, for Japanese poetry) features a typical, elongated, and highly elegant silhouette for this use, highlighted by a delicate vine decoration. On a warm brown background revealing the natural wood grain, a fluid composition unfolds where sinuous stems, leaves, and flowers intertwine lightly. The motifs alternate between raden (mother-of-pearl) inlays with iridescent reflections and maki-e (lacquer sprinkled with metallic powder, including gold powder) applications, creating a subtle interplay of materials and light. The intentionally asymmetrical balance of the decoration complements the object's length and accentuates its discreet elegance.

Technique and Decoration

The box is made of keyaki (zelkova), a dense wood highly prized in Japan for the beauty of its grain. Here, the grain is left visible and fully integrated into the object's aesthetic, following a traditional approach of enhancing the material rather than masking it.

The decoration combines two classic lacquer art techniques. Raden (mother-of-pearl) involves the inlay of polished shell fragments, visible in the elements with iridescent reflections. Maki-e (powder) is achieved by localized application of lacquer serving as a binder, onto which metallic powders, including gold powders, are deposited to form the floral motifs.

Together, they form a tsuru hana zu (vine) type decoration, characterized by fine, sinuous stems extending along the entire length of the box. The work here is done directly on the prepared wood surface, allowing the grain to remain visible while integrating the raden and maki-e applications. This approach, well-established in Japanese decorative arts, highlights both the quality of the wood and the refinement of the decoration.

Usage

The tanzaku bako (tanzaku box) is designed to store tanzaku (vertical paper strips), used for calligraphy or poetry. Its elongated shape precisely corresponds to these formats, making it both a utilitarian and refined object, often found in environments related to brush arts.

Practical Information

Place of manufacture:
Japan

Dimensions:
Length 38.5 cm - Width 7.8 cm - Height 2.7 cm

Weight:
230g

Period:
Shōwa Era (1926-1989)

Materials:
Keyaki wood (zelkova), lacquer, mother-of-pearl (raden), gold powder

Condition:
Good condition, slightwear consistent with age and use