Aizu-nuri 【Aizu Lacquerware】会津塗 - Box - Lacquerware, Gold powder, Maki-e - Aizu Lacquerware【 会津塗】

【Overview】This is an exceptionally beautiful, heavy-duty Japanese lacquerware (Aizu-nuri) small box / jewelry box. It showcases two of Aizu's most prestigious traditional techniques: stunning, detailed gold Makie (sprinkled gold powder) and the unique "Kinmushi-kui-nuri" lacquer style.【Historical Background & Design】The top lid features a gorgeous gold Makie design inspired by the "Hatsune" (The First Warbler) chapter of "The Tale of Genji" (Genji Monogatari). This design is based on the famous National Treasure "Hatsune no Chodo" (The Hatsune Trousseau), which was created in the Edo period for Chiyohime, the eldest daughter of the 3rd Tokugawa Shogun, Iemitsu. It exquisitely depicts traditional Japanese courtly scenery: flowing water, bridges, plum blossoms, and a small bird.【Prestigious "Kinmushi-kui-nuri" Technique】The sides and lid base are finished with the iconic Aizu technique known as "Kinmushi-kui-nuri" (Golden insect-eaten pattern technique). This highly complex, time-consuming method involves scattering barley husks over wet black lacquer to create natural indentations, applying gold/red pigments, and meticulously polishing the surface to reveal a magnificent, organic mottled pattern. It gives the piece an incredible depth and a luxurious, textured presence.【Condition & Quality】Condition: Excellent vintage condition. The lacquer has a beautiful, deep glossy finish with minimal signs of use. There are no major scratches, cracks, or peeling on the lacquer. The dark blue velvet interior is extremely clean and well-preserved.Build: It has a very solid, high-quality weight and presence.Careful Details: Felt pads are attached to the four corners of the bottom to prevent slipping and protect your furniture from scratches.Accessories: Comes with the original Japanese explanatory leaflet detailing the history of the "Hatsune" motif and the shop paper of "Seki Lacquerware Shop" from Aizu-Wakamatsu, Fukushima.
【Size】
Length: approx. 11 cm
Width: approx. 16.5 cm
Height: approx. 6 cm
Weight: approx. 500g

Weight after packing: approx. 1050g

【Shipping & Packaging】

The item will be packed with great care using secure protective materials to ensure safe international transportation. We take pride in careful packaging and prompt shipping so that the item arrives in the best possible condition.
Import duties and taxes imposed in the destination country are the responsibility of the buyer, in accordance with international shipping regulations.