A charming lacquered wooden clothing rack 衣桁 (ikô), traditionally used for the formal display of kimono. The detachable rectangular frame is lavishly decorated with scrolling foliage surrounding crests 紋 (mon) depicting a pair of arched flowering apricot leaves 鍋島花杏葉 (Nabeshima hana’gyôyô). The pole ends are adorned with fitted metalwork engraved with scrolling foliage. The feet feature a gilded crest depicting four open squares 目結 (meyui). The decorative motifs are rendered in golden hiramaki-e 平蒔絵 (low-relief lacquer design) on a lustrous black lacquer base 蝋色漆 (rôiro’urushi). Period: Japan – 19th century (Late Edo period/Early Meiji period), feet from later date Dimensions: Height 151.2 cm, Width 179.2 cm, Depth 37.5 cm The rack is in a very good condition with minimal signs of age and use. Please refer to the photos for a clear condition reference. An ikô is a piece of interior furnishing documented to be used in Japan as early as the twelfth century. By the thirteenth, fourteenth, and fifteenth centuries, lacquer clothing stands had become a conventional item included in the bridal trousseau of wealthy women. The gyôyô 杏葉 motif originates from decorative leather fittings used on armour and saddles, named for their resemblance to apricot leaves. Already in use by the Heian period, it became a noble crest adopted by court families and later gained prestige in Kyushu as a reward granted by the powerful Ôtomo clan. Due to its shape, it is sometimes confused with the myôga crest 茗荷紋. The kimono displayed in the picture is included in this lot. This stand will be shipped in separate parts and is easy to assemble. When shipped, we will include a certificate of authenticity. Please note: Due to the holidays, shipping and handling times may be longer. Thank you for your understanding.