An exquisite example of etched lacquer featuring butterflies fluttering over waving grasses among seasonal floral dials enclosed in a fine wooden storage box dated Meiji 36 (1903) signed Wajima Kikuchi Chosei of the Wajima lacquer tradition. The box is titled Tsuishu Go-kumi Jubako (5 tiered Carved Red Lacquer Box). It is without a doubt the finest example in this style I have seen in 30 years of doing this job. Assembled it is 23 x 21.5 x 35.5 cm (9 x 8-1/2 x 14 inches) and comes with a spare lid.
Wajima-nuri is a renowned style of Japanese lacquerware that originated in the city of Wajima on the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture. dating back to at least the 15th century, with the earliest known reference found in temple records from 1476. By the Edo period Wajima had established a reputation for quality and artistry. The local industry flourished, supported by demand from samurai households, temples, and merchant patrons. Incorporating intricate maki-e techniques, Artisans elevated Wajima-nuri from practical ware to high art. During the Meiji period (1868–1912) and into the modern era, Wajima lacquerware became an important export item and a symbol of Japanese craftsmanship. The devastating 2024 Noto Peninsula earthquake, following on the heels of two previous disasters, brought devastating damage affecting the local industry. At the moment this treasured cultural heritage is under threat.
