173 - A FINE MOTHER-OF-PEARL-INLAID BLACK LACQUER BUNKO (DOCUMENT BOX) WITH MAGNOLIA

A FINE MOTHER-OF-PEARL-INLAID BLACK LACQUER BUNKO (DOCUMENT BOX) WITH MAGNOLIA Japan, mid-20th century, Showa period (1926-1989) Of rectangular form with softly rounded corners, bearing a lustrous, mirror-black roiro ground exquisitely inlaid with iridescent aogai (mother-of-pearl). The flush-fitting inrobuta cover depicts an elegantly arching magnolia branch with delicate blossoms, pointed buds, and finely veined leaves, rendered in carefully selected pieces of luminous shell displaying subtle shades of white, green, and rose, the flower centers accented in warm orange. The graceful composition extends diagonally across the cover and continues seamlessly over the edges onto the sides, the shimmering inlays providing a striking contrast to the deep black lacquer ground. The restrained design, with its generous expanses of polished lacquer, lends the composition a remarkable sense of elegance and refinement. The interior is similarly finished in lustrous roiro with fine silver rims. SIZE 33.3 x 23.6 x 11.3 cm Provenance: From a private collection in Saxony, Germany. Condition: Very good condition with minor expected wear, a few light surface scratches, particularly to the underside, and occasional tiny nicks. The inlays are beautifully preserved and the box presents exceptionally well. Auction comparison: Compare a related black lacquer box for personal accessories by Takai Tairei (1881-1971), dated to the mid-20th century, at Bonhams, Fine Japanese & Korean Art, 25 March 2026, New York, lot 1079 (sold for USD 35,840 or approx. EUR 32,500 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing).