Petite Japanese Tsugaru-nuri Box

This petite Japanese keepsake box is decorated with a traditional lacquer technique known as tsugaru-nuri, wherein lacquer flecked with bits of shell and gold powder was carefully poured over a wooden substrate and sanded to reveal a gorgeous marbled effect. The lid of this box utilizes tsugaru-nuri lacquer to stunning effect to create chrysanthemum blossoms, symbols of longevity. The all-over crystalline pattern is stippled with gold, pearl, and white with occasional red and blue undertones. The base of the box is smoothly coated in dozens of layers of black lacquer to build a refined but durable finish.

From the collection of Frances and Gary Comer.