The year was 1829, and in the elegant quarters of Edo's samurai elite, master lacquer artists were creating objects of such breathtaking beauty that they would become treasures for centuries to come. This extraordinary set of three maki-e sake cups, inscribed with "Bunsei 12th year," represents the absolute pinnacle of Japanese lacquer artistry during one of its most refined periods. Each cup displays different seasonal imagery rendered in the precious maki-e technique, where gold and silver powders are sprinkled onto wet lacquer to create luminous decorative effects. The largest cup measures 27cm in diameter, the medium 24.5cm, and the smallest 23cm, each bearing different heights that create a harmonious nested arrangement. Poetry inscribed on the reverse connects each piece to classical Japanese literature, adding intellectual depth to their visual splendour. The Bunsei era (1818-1831) marked a golden age of Edo culture, when prolonged peace allowed artistic traditions to flourish with unprecedented sophistication. Master lacquer artists, working under the patronage of wealthy merchants and samurai families, pushed their craft to heights of technical and aesthetic perfection rarely achieved before or since. The maki-e technique, which literally means "sprinkled picture," required years of training to master and represented the most prestigious form of lacquer decoration. This particular set demonstrates the "taka maki-e" (raised maki-e) technique, where multiple layers of lacquer and metal powders create dimensional effects that catch light from different angles. The seasonal imagery – likely depicting cherry blossoms, autumn maples, and winter scenes – follows the Japanese aesthetic principle of mono no aware, the bittersweet awareness of the impermanence of all things. Each cup thus becomes a meditation on the passage of time and the beauty found in transience. The historical significance of dated Bunsei lacquerware cannot be overstated. This period saw the refinement of techniques that had developed over centuries, creating works that modern artisans struggle to equal. The inclusion of classical poetry (waka) on the reverse demonstrates the integration of literary and visual arts that characterised the highest levels of Japanese cultural production during this era. In contemporary European settings, these cups serve multiple sophisticated purposes. Beyond their original function as sake vessels, they become objets d'art that bring warmth and luxury to any interior. Their lustrous black lacquer surfaces provide striking contrast against modern minimalist palettes, while the gold maki-e details add precious metal accents that rival fine jewellery in their refinement. The condition shows the dignified aging appropriate to nearly two centuries of existence. Minor surface wear to the lacquer is consistent with pieces that have been treasured and occasionally used, while the underlying wooden forms remain structurally sound. The maki-e decoration retains most of its original brilliance, testament to the exceptional quality of materials and craftsmanship. Museum collections worldwide, including the Victoria & Albert Museum and the Tokyo National Museum, preserve similar Bunsei-era maki-e works as cultural treasures. Recent auction results for comparable pieces have demonstrated strong international collector interest, particularly for sets with documented dates and poetic inscriptions. The extreme rarity of complete, dated sets from this period makes this an exceptional collecting opportunity. Most such pieces have been separated over time or suffered damage that compromises their integrity. Finding a complete trio with matching themes, consistent quality, and clear date inscription represents a confluence of circumstances unlikely to be repeated soon. For collectors who understand that true luxury lies in the marriage of precious materials with supreme artistry, this sake cup set offers an invitation to own objects that embody Japan's aesthetic genius at its most refined. Should these pieces resonate with your appreciation for historical masterworks, serious consideration is warranted. Shipping & Handling We ship worldwide via DHL or EMS with full insurance and tracking. Professional packing ensures safe arrival; combined shipping available for multiple wins. Local customs duties are the buyer's responsibility. Seller Guarantee We specialise in authentic Edo period lacquerware and guarantee this piece's authenticity. Questions welcome – we reply within 24 hours.