A finely decorative antique Japanese black lacquer lidded box, dating to the Meiji period or early 20th century, circa 1880–1920, decorated with a gilt landscape scene in the maki-e tradition.

The box is of small rectangular form, with a lift-off lid and black lacquered interior. The lid is decorated with a refined gilt landscape scene depicting stylised trees, birds, water or mist bands, and small architectural elements set within a decorative floral border. The sides are further ornamented with gilt floral sprigs against the black lacquer ground.

The decoration shows the characteristic visual language of Japanese lacquerwork, with gilt detailing applied over a dark ground. Areas of age-related wear reveal a warm reddish-brown ground beneath the gold and black lacquer layers, supporting the attribution to traditional Japanese lacquer decoration rather than later printed or transfer decoration.

The scale and form suggest use as a small trinket box, table box or kogo-style box. While the proportions are consistent with the small lidded boxes associated with incense and personal effects, it is described here cautiously as kogo style rather than as a definite tea ceremony incense box.

A charming and highly displayable example of Japanese lacquer, with strong decorative appeal despite its honest age-related wear.

Condition

Good antique decorative condition overall, with age-related wear throughout.

The box shows surface scratches, rubbing, dulling to the lacquer, small chips, lacquer losses and corner wear. There are visible splits and losses to the lacquer at the corners and edges. The lid and base are both present.

There is a small loss to the interior lower rim / seating slot where the lid meets the base. The top panel shows fine craquelure, spotting, surface marks and wear to the gilt maki-e style decoration. The interior black lacquer shows rubbing, dust marks and general handling wear.

The box remains decorative and usable, with attractive patina and visible age. Please review all photographs carefully, as they form part of the condition report.

Details

Origin: Japan
Period: Meiji Period / Early 20th Century
Date: circa 1880–1920
Material: Black lacquer over wooden or composition core
Decoration: Gilt maki-e style landscape and floral decoration
Form: Small rectangular lidded trinket / kogo-style box
Colour: Black, gold, red-brown
Lid: Lift-off lid
Signed: No signature found

Measurements

Height: 4 cm
Width: 11 cm
Depth: 8.7 cm
Weight: 78 g

Collector Appeal

A small but characterful piece of antique Japanese lacquerwork, combining a black lacquer ground with gilt landscape decoration and visible age-related patina. Its compact scale, Meiji-period styling and maki-e decorative character make it an appealing cabinet piece for collectors of Japanese lacquer, small boxes, Asian antiques and decorative objects.