盒子 - 金色桔梗 蒔絵 装饰 由 Unryu（雲龍）创作

Title
Japanese Aizu Lacquerware Bunko - Black Urushi Writing Box with Gold Kikyo (Bellflower) Maki-e Decoration by Unryu (雲龍) - Wooden Base

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Description
This is an exceptionally elegant and authentic example of traditional Japanese Aizu lacquerware (Aizu-nuri), the celebrated craft tradition of Fukushima Prefecture with a history spanning more than 400 years.

This stationery box, known as a Bunko (writing/document box), is crafted on a genuine wooden base (木製), as confirmed by the original workshop label on the accompanying presentation box. The surface is finished in a deep, lustrous black urushi lacquer with a brilliant mirror-like gloss, providing a refined contrast to the delicate decorative artwork.

The “Kikyo” (Bellflower) Motif & Artist Signature:
The lid is beautifully adorned with a Kikyo (Japanese Bellflower / Balloon Flower) motif, meticulously executed using the traditional Maki-e (sprinkled gold powder lacquer) technique, enhanced with subtle gradated color pigments on the petals.

In Japanese culture, the Kikyo is counted among the beloved “Seven Flowers of Autumn.” Owing to its elegant star-like form and the auspicious association of its kanji character—containing the element “吉” (good fortune)—the flower has long symbolized sincerity, nobility, and the arrival of good fortune.

Most importantly, the lower right corner bears the hand-painted gold signature “Unryu” (雲龍) together with the artisan’s red lacquer seal (Kakuin), certifying the work of a skilled Aizu lacquer master.

The box further features sophisticated Mentori (bevelled) edges, allowing the glossy lacquer surface to reflect light beautifully from different angles. This piece elegantly bridges functional traditional craftsmanship and refined decorative artistry, making it ideal both for practical use—such as storing documents or letters—and as a sophisticated display object for collectors of Japanese lacquerware.

Size:
Type: “Shaku-maru” (尺〇) – Standard large Japanese document size
Dimensions: Approx. 30.0 cm in length — comfortably accommodates standard A4 or letter-sized documents

Condition
In excellent vintage condition, remarkably well preserved and classified as “unused” based on its pristine interior condition and provenance.

The black urushi lacquer surface retains a stunning mirror-like gloss, while the gold Maki-e decoration remains crisp, sharp, and vibrant.

Accompanied by its original patterned presentation box (Kesho-bako), retaining the authentic manufacturer labels reading “木製 あいづぬり” (“Wooden Aizu Lacquerware”) and “黒 桔梗” (“Black Bellflower”).

No cracks, chips, deep scratches, or structural damage. Please examine the high-resolution photographs carefully for a detailed assessment of the condition.

We will use Japan Post or for shipping.
Please allow extra time for delivery as the items are shipped from Japan.
Please note that the listed prices do not include customs duties and taxes.
Please note that items may have scratches or stains due to age.
If an item exceeds the size or weight limits, it may be shipped in multiple packages.