Scholar's writing desk (suzuribako) Gold lacquer Japan Edo

Lacquered wood suzuribako, decorated with cranes and Minogamous figures under a pine tree and bamboo. The third "friend," the plum tree, is missing; it must be suggested somewhere, symbolically or in the form of a rebus that we have not found or understood. Excellent quality workmanship. Perfectly executed designs, well-preserved lacquer, thick and solid powdering. A very fine antique piece. The decoration depicts cranes and Minogamous figures executed in gold and silver powder (now blackened). The silver Kirikane are heavily oxidized. The interior is decorated with fishermen with cormorants. Good condition, no restoration. One corner is damaged (see close-up). This is exceptional condition for a three-hundred-year-old lacquer piece. A rare suzuribako worthy of inclusion in the finest collections. 245 x 225 x 50 cm.Japon early 18th or before.