Tosa domain suzuribako (Japanese writing box) in urushi lacquer and gold, kikkō ume (hexagon and plum tree) and kamon (family emblems) decoration

This urushi lacquer suzuribako (Japanese writing box) features remarkable kikkō ume (hexagonal plum blossom pattern) decoration, executed in maki-e with gold powder on a rich nashiji (gold powder ground). Made for a member connected to the Yamauchi family, a former daimyō (feudal lord) family of the Tosa domain, this piece combines historical kamon (family crests), geometric motifs, and ume (plum) blossoms in a particularly refined composition. The ensemble attests to a high level of craftsmanship, characteristic of aristocratic objects made at the end of the Edo period.

Historical Context
This piece belonged to the Yamauchi family, who governed the Tosa domain during the Edo period and until the abolition of the feudal system (in 1871).

The Tosa domain corresponds to the present-day Kōchi Prefecture, located on Shikoku Island. Governed during the Edo period by the Yamauchi family, this domain held an important place in the Japanese feudal aristocracy. The Yamauchi were notably known for their political role at the end of the Tokugawa shogunate and during the Meiji Restoration.

The decoration includes several kamon (family crests) associated with this lineage. Notably, the Tosa gashiwa mon (Tosa oak leaf emblem), depicted within a circle, as well as a kikkō ume (hexagonal plum pattern) decoration, a traditional Japanese motif associated with longevity, prosperity, and elegance.

The simultaneous presence of these emblems and this provenance gives this suzuribako a particularly interesting heraldic and aristocratic dimension.

Decoration and Techniques
This box is made of wood covered with numerous layers of Japanese urushi lacquer. The entire outer surface is treated with nashiji (gold powder ground), with a very subtle modulation of the powder density. Some areas are heavily laden with gold powder, while others reveal more of the dark depth of the lacquer, this variation creating a beautiful cloud effect.

The main decoration consists of a vast network of kikkō (hexagonal patterns inspired by tortoise scales), within which ume (plum) blossoms appear. The motifs are made in maki-e with gold powder, a technique consisting of applying fine metallic powders to the still-fresh lacquer before progressively fixing and polishing the decoration. The whole presents a slight relief obtained by successive superpositions of lacquer and powders, giving the motifs a discreetly modeled presence.

The composition alternates the rigor of geometric motifs with the freer effects of nashiji, creating a refined contrast between decorative structure and the depth of the lacquer.

The kamon (family crests) applied to the lid are executed with great graphic sobriety. Notably, the Tosa gashiwa mon (Tosa oak leaf emblem) as well as the kiri mon (paulownia emblem) can be distinguished.

The interior of the suzuribako also features particularly refined nashiji work, covering the entire inner surface with dense gold powder.

Form and Use
The suzuribako is a box intended for the practice of Japanese calligraphy. It allowed for the storage of necessary writing instruments, particularly brushes, solid ink, an inkstone, and accessories related to ink preparation.

High-level suzuribako also constituted prestige objects associated with Japanese aristocratic and scholarly circles.

Presentation
This piece is accompanied by its tomobako (wooden box) bearing the name of the work and a historical inscription mentioning its connection to the Yamauchi family of the Tosa domain.

The sanadahimo (woven cord) accompanying the protective box was added more recently.

Place of Manufacture
Japan

Period
End of the Edo period (1603-1868)

Dimensions
Length 25.5 cm - Width 23 cm - Height 5.6 cm

Weight
Suzuribako + tomobako: 1.7kg

Materials
Wood, urushi lacquer, gold powder

Condition
In very good condition despite its age. Small lacquer repair to an inner corner of the lid, small impacts on 2 body corners and small scratches on the outer bottom, all invisible when the box is closed. This suzuribako can be presented in Paris by appointment for acquisition (contact@atelierikiwa.com).