Signed 19th C. Meiji Diminutive Lacquer Stacking Cabinet, C. 1850-1867, Japan

GBP 5,800.00

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Object Description

The highly decorated tray in the form of a table frames a series of three stacking boxes, a further three lidded boxes and a tray concealed within, raised on ogee bracket feet.

This fine lacquer stacking cabinet of gold and black is a variation on a cabinet for incense. It contains small boxes within boxes to hold incense woods, and an outer tray in the form of a table with legs.

All of the original eleven components are present.

The opening up of Japan in the mid-1850s after more than two centuries of seclusion from the rest of the world triggered a huge interest in Japanese art and design. Western collectors, artists and designers particularly admired lacquer, for which they had no equivalent.

It is plausible that this item was purchased at the Paris Exhibition in 1867.

Object History

Provenance: Private collection Salisbury.

Object Literature

Further reading:
This stacking cabinet relates closely to an example purchased by the Victoria & Albert Museum at the Paris Exhibition of 1867 (accession number: 875 to J-1869). This and subsequent international exhibitions were largely responsible for introducing Japanese art to the Western public. Lacquerwork formed a central part of the Japanese displays at these exhibitions. Some examples were old, but the majority, like this piece, were new or nearly new. The V&A acquired 20 items of Japanese lacquerwork from the Paris Exhibition.

Object Condition

Good
Wear consistent with age and use. Good original condition with minor wear in line with age and use.

Object Details

  • Style
  • dimensions
    W:13 x H:12.4 x D:8.9 centimeters
  • country
  • year
    1850-1867

Dealer Opening Times

By appointment only.

Dealer Contact

Dealer Location

Buscot Manor
Buscot
Oxfordshire
SN7 8DA

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