Fan-shaped Kobako (Incense box) - Japanese Lacquer - Edo

Fan-shaped kobako, decorated with clouds and wisterias in gold lacquer and kirigane on a silver background. The sides are decorated with a checked pattern in gold lacquer. The background and the inside are in nashi-ji lacquer.

Kobako (“little boxes”) are often adorned with harmonious decors and sceneries inspired by Japanese fauna and flora. Japanese artists play with shapes and materials with accuracy and thoroughness akin to silverware.

Japan, Edo period (1603-1868)

Length 3.15 in – Height 1.86 in – Width 0.8 in