18 - † A RARE FIVE-CASE INLAID LACQUER ‘SHOKI AND WILD DUCK’ INRO

† A RARE FIVE-CASE INLAID LACQUER ‘SHOKI AND WILD DUCK’ INRO Unsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Of upright rectangular form with oval section, bearing a finely textured rogin ground, delicately decorated in gold takamaki-e and hiramaki-e and enriched with mother-of-pearl inlays and gold kirigane. One side depicts Shoki striding forward in voluminous robes, a sword at his waist and his head shaded by a broad-brimmed hat, while the reverse is decorated with a large wild duck crouching among windswept reeds. The interior cases are lacquered in nashiji with gold fundame rims. With a fine colored glass ojime. HEIGHT 8.7 cm, LENGTH 5.7 cm Provenance: Offered at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Works of Art, 22 March 2011, New York, lot 3066 (mid-estimate at USD 10,000 or approx. EUR 13,000 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing). Condition: Good condition with typical old wear, minor rubbing to lacquer, few shallow bruises to the top from contact with an ojime, minuscule losses with associated repairs to inlays. Presenting beautifully. The legend of Shoki, the demon queller, derives from the Chinese figure Zhong Kui. According to tradition, Zhong Kui took his own life after failing to attain the official recognition he believed he deserved in the imperial examinations. The emperor nevertheless ordered that he receive an honorable burial, and in gratitude his spirit vowed to protect the sovereign and rid the realm of demons. In Japan, Shoki became an especially popular protective figure, celebrated for his formidable appearance and power to ward off evil. The wild duck (kamo) on the reverse provides a more subtle counterpoint to the imposing figure of Shoki. In Chinese decorative symbolism, ducks shown among aquatic plants could carry auspicious associations with scholarly success and advancement, themes that resonate with the examination legend surrounding Zhong Kui. The juxtaposition thus creates an elegant play between Shoki’s failed examination and imagery associated with achievement and good fortune. 13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.