A Very Fine Takamaki-e Lacquer Cheroot Case in the Manner of Shibata Zeshin

The 'ishime' lacquered case consisting of two conforming molded sections with one sliding overtop the other, both sides decorated with hand painted gilt, silver & burnt dark russet (kasshoku) lacquers, depicting motifs in low relief of a rat with an acorn on one side and two acorns on the opposing. Signed with characters and a mon on one edge.

 

Dimensions, 3.75” high x 2.25” wide. In very good overall condition with minor surface wear consistent with age, materials & use.

 

In Japanese culture Rats are considered auspicious symbols of fertility & wealth, Acorns symbolize prosperity & growth.

 

Takamaki-e is a lacquer technique in which metallic powders such as silver, gold, copper, pewter etc., are used in combination with lacquer & clay-dust to build up motifs in low relief. (Please note that the color tones & hues of the lacquered motifs appear somewhat more vibrant in the images due to ambient lighting conditions).  

SHIBATA ZESHIN (1807-1891) was a master lacquer craftsman and is regarded as perhaps the most famous & accomplished lacquer artist of the late Edo / early Meiji Periods, with examples of his work on permanent display at the Metropolitan Museum in New York City and the Victoria & Albert Museum in London.

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