Long poem box (tanzakubako) in Japanese urushi lacquer, peonies in gold powder maki-e
This Japanese urushi lacquer box, with its elongated and slightly curved lines, is decorated with a superb, very fine and detailed peony and grass motif made in taka maki-e with gold powder, a complex and extremely sophisticated technique of lacquer relief, obtained by superimposing thickened layers before the application of metallic powders. The interior is entirely decorated with nashiji, a precious technique of sprinkling fine particles of gold into the lacquer to create a discreet shimmering effect.
The piece bears the signature 平安象福造 (Heian Zoshuku-zō), the name of a workshop established in Kyoto and active at the end of the Meiji period (1868–1912) and during the Taishō period (1912–1926). Specializing in the production of ornamental lacquerware, this workshop is distinguished by the finesse of its traditional decorations and the quality of its finishes. This type of long box, called tanzakubako, was intended to hold tanzaku, these thin vertical strips of paper on which poems or wishes were calligraphed. Today it can hold letters, photos or small objects, for example.
This antique piece (probably from the late Taishō period, which lasted from 1912 to 1926) is carefully preserved, showing wear consistent with its age and use, with some scratches and chips. There is a small chip on the front right edge of the lid, as well as very light surface marks.
It comes with its original wooden box (tomobako), signed inside the lid, guaranteeing its authenticity.
A rare object due to its size (nearly 40 cm long) and the quality of its execution, this box demonstrates the traditional know-how of Japanese urushi lacquer and gold powder decorations at its highest level.
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JAPAN |
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(box only) Length 39.5cm x Width 9cm x Height 5.4cm |
| WEIGHT | (total) 870gr |
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© Atelier Ikiwa – Laurence Corteggiani. Photos and texts protected. All reproduction forbidden without authorization.
KNOW-HOW
Traditional Japanese lacquer, urushi, comes from the sap of the lacquer tree (Rhus Verniciflua), which flows after incision of the bark. It is a very precious material, a tree will give a maximum of 200ml of sap in its life, which is worked by specialized craftsmen. It takes many operations, slow and meticulous, and several months of work to bring real lacquer objects to life. It is the oldest craft in Japan! Initially used to protect and waterproof objects, this immutable craft has become an art of extreme sophistication. If you want to know more about the art of Japanese lacquer, you can read our dedicated article > .
SHIPPING AND PAYMENT OPTIONS
Shipping
Free shipping in mainland France for purchases over €200. Shipping with Colissimo, delivery to your home or a pick-up point, package delivered against signature or unique code for valuable items. Orders are generally dispatched within 2 business days, except for fine art photographs, which are printed on demand, and special cases that will be announced in the banner at the top of the site (e.g., in case of absence). Learn more >
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Returns and exchanges
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CARE INSTRUCTIONS
Clean with a very soft cloth to avoid scratches, soaked in a little warm water if necessary (never soak your lacquer objects). No microwave, dishwasher, dryer. Do not expose to direct sunlight for a long time (risk of discoloration). If the atmosphere is very dry and very hot, and to avoid the risk of cracking, you can place a glass filled with water next to your lacquer object.
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The art of wrapping
The exceptional items are wrapped in a beautiful fabric beautifully knotted using the little-known art of Korean pojagi and decorated with a delightful maedup (Korean ornamental knot). Details and conditions >
WRAPPING
Exceptional items are wrapped in textiles tied according to the Korean pojagi art