Vintage Japanese Kamakura-bori Tai Sea Bream Kashibako (Confectionery Box) with Lid

Dimensions: 14-1/2L” x 8-0w” x 4-0”h  

In Japan, sea bream (tai) is a favorite fish thought to bring good luck and one that is essential to traditional evens and special occasions. Shown is a beautiful, large Japanese wood and lacquer box in the form of a sea bream which is very lifelike in its size, finely hand carved and finished with Kamakura ‘Tsuishu red lacquer’ and ‘Tsuikoku black lacquer’ a process and color that originally came from China along with Zen Buddhism in the Kamakura period. There are several layers of variegated red colors and black highlights which heightens the fluid appearance of the design. It exhibits a fine hand carved realistically represented that shows a great deal of attention to the distinctive face, and mother of pearl eyes inset to give a full perspective of the entire head. The scales and fins which serve a dual purpose as decorative handles are beautifully and wonderful carved using what is known as “hiramaki-e”, (low relief carving). An impressed stamp, Made in Japan is on the back indicating the years the piece for it was only used from 1921-1941.

To see more on the subject of Lacquerware go to: https://mingeiarts.com/blogs/celebration-of-mingei-journey-through-japan/lacquerwork-an-important-intangible-ancient-art 

Vintage Condition: Excellent condition meaning commensurate with age and void of damage, cracks, breakage, or repairs, and still retains its distinctive character without restoration and Beautiful patination throughout. Meets the high standards of the collector of Japanese Lacquerware.

Additional Information: The sea bream has always been considered an auspicious fish seems to date back to antiquity, as far back as some 1,300 years ago and presented at the shrine as a ritual offering to the gods. Additionally In Japan, the color red has been believed, since ancient times, to ward off evil.  The piece shown was used for serving both sushi dishes (Kodai suzumezushi) or serving “Dorayaki”, which is a type of pancake filled with sweet azuki red bean paste, or “Wagashi”, and originally made to be served to compliment formal Kaiseki or Omakase dinners. Kamakura-bori was originally produced for samurai and noble classes to compliment food being served during the tea ceremony.