【Important notes】 ・International Buyers: Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping charges. These charges are the buyer’s responsibility. ・Please check with your country’s customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to bidding/buying. These duties are paid to your country's customs office and not to us. Prompt payment of these fees is necessary to ensure delivery of your item. 【Product details】 This exquisite antique hibachi, a traditional Japanese heating apparatus, not only served as a room warmer but also as a vessel to boil water. Due to its clean burn that released minimal smoke and soot, it became a favored piece in imperial courts and among elite samurai households. Beyond its practical use, these upscale hibachis, often referred to as 'Palace Hibachis' or 'Court Hibachis', prioritized ornate designs and were even used for decorative purposes. It was common to display such artful hibachis in a room's alcove, showcasing their beauty. Moreover, it's believed these were cherished items in daimyo households during bridal processions. The striking design features a myriad of insects - frogs, butterflies, dragonflies, beetles, cicadas, grasshoppers, mantises, snails, and more, meticulously depicted using maki-e, a traditional Japanese lacquer sprinkled with powdered gold or silver. Maki-e is an intricate art form where the design is first painted with lacquer, and then sprinkled with gold or silver powder to bring the image to life, showcasing a lustrous and refined finish. While time has left its mark, with evident wear, chips and cracks, it's an authentic testament to its age. The accompanying wooden box does show signs of aging and damages. Please refer to the photographs for a detailed assessment. Dimensions: approx. H 23 cm W 50 cm L 50 cm ・Please make sure to review all the provided information and images before placing your bid. Thank you for your interest, and happy bidding!