153 - HAKUHO: A SUPERB AND RARE LACQUER ‘CROW, MOON AND WAVES’ SUZURIBAKO (WRITING BOX)

HAKUHO: A SUPERB AND RARE LACQUER ‘CROW, MOON AND WAVES’ SUZURIBAKO (WRITING BOX) By Hakuho, signed Hakuho saku with a kakihan Japan, early 20 th century, Meiji (1868-1912) to Taisho period (1912-1926) Of rectangular form with rounded corners and a gently domed kabusebuta (overhanging cover), the exterior bearing a lustrous, finely gold-sprinkled ground, superbly decorated in richly textured black takamaki-e with a magnificent crow, its wings dramatically outstretched and its head raised, the beak open as though calling. The bird's rounded body is supported on slender legs terminating in finely articulated claws, while its striking golden eye lends an arresting intensity to the composition. The plumage is exceptionally well rendered, with overlapping layers of individually delineated feathers, their subtly varied relief and finely incised details creating a remarkable impression of depth and movement. The broad wings and elegantly fanned tail extend almost to the edges of the cover, their dark, lustrous surfaces contrasting beautifully with the softly shimmering gold ground. The interior is equally finely lacquered, with richly sprinkled gold nashiji, scattered kinpun and kirigane flakes, and delicate gold hiramaki-e depicting stylized waves and clouds, as well as a magnificently rising golden moon. Fitted with a rectangular suzuri (inkstone), a finely worked silver suiteki (water dropper), and two fude (writing brushes). Signed beneath the inkstone HAKUHO saku [made by Hakuho] with a red kakihan. SIZE 24 x 22.5 x 10.5 cm Condition: Very good condition with only minor wear, small dents, expected losses to kirigane flakes and light surface scatches. With an inscribed wood tomobako (storage box) signed and sealed by the artist.