132 - JAPAN - First half of the 19th century

JAPAN - First half of the 19th century Suzuribako (writing box) made of inlaid lacquer, depicting a lush garden filled with flowers and birds. Rectangular in shape and featuring a flush-fitting lid (*inrôbuta*), the object is decorated with chrysanthemums (*kiku*) in full bloom, arranged behind a fence; the scene is brought to life by birds, some in flight, others perched among the branches. The exterior is covered with a rich *rôiro-mura-nashiji* background (black lacquer irregularly speckled with *nashiji* metallic particles), delicately adorned with inlays of white mother-of-pearl (*aogai*) that shimmer brilliantly. These inlaid details are subtly enhanced by *hiramaki-e* motifs (lacquer in slight relief) executed with gold powder. The interior features the *rôiro-mura-nashiji* finish; the inner surface of the lid is decorated with scattered family crests (*mon*), executed in gold and silver *hiramaki-e*. The depicted motif, called *mizutomoe*—composed of three spiral shapes resembling commas and associated with the element of water—is linked to the Sumiyoshi Shrine, located in Fukuoka. The inner tray features the same finish and contains the original accessories: a rectangular *suzuri* (inkstone) and an oval silver *suiteki* (ink dropper) featuring a peony flower in relief. Period: Japan—Late Edo period (first half of the 19th century) Dimensions: Height 4.2 cm, width 23 cm, depth 19.5 cm