Vintage Japanese Large/Rare Kamakura Bori Red Lacquer Noh Okina Document Box | Shorui bakkusu Signed

Dimensions: 4-3/4”h x 9-3/4”w x 14-0”l

The Figures Background: This RARE Japanese Lacquer Lidded Document box for which “mingei” lacquered handcrafted items are rarely signed. This piece is signed but the signature is not translated but prominently exhibited on the front of the lid. The Japanese seller told us that it was made specifically for the family, hence it is signed. The piece exhibits a wonderful texture and bold design detailing through intricate high-relief carving (Takamakie) on top of the lied. The motif represents the Okina (Old Man) performer who performs a sacred Noh ritual dance before other Noh plays (Kyogen) with pine trees, which are part of the stage in the background. It is entirely optional whether or not an Okie ritual performance precedes the first play. He sings a Shinto prayer song that is additionally performed on special occasions, such as New Year's Day, to pray for peace, prosperity, and safety. The Okina character participates in the oldest play in the Noh repertoire. It is considered the foundation of the art of Zeami Motokiyo.

The most unique feature of this Document Box is its base design of deep burgundy red pigment, (from the use of iron oxide and cinnabar) on an intense, deep, and slightly cool nature for an interesting overall effect. The Okina figure is intricately carved in high relief, (Takamakie). The base of the lid design and sides and corners are curved with their surfaces, with low relief, (Tiramakie) textural work featuring chisel markings left intentionally to accentuate overall patterned areas on all four sides of the box. Additionally on the top of the lid are lines representing ‘spiritual light’ emanating from beneath the sacred figure. The interior of the box is high gloss black lacquer. Boxes of this quality and carved from Ginko Wood are rare and hard to find, particularly with this designedly interpretation of the motif. “Mingei” lacquered handcrafted items are rarely signed by the artist or craftsperson.

Additional Information:

Kamakura-bori is a type of lacquer ware made in the area around the city of Kamakura in Kanagawa prefecture. The tradition dates back to the Kamakura period (1185-1333) when Tsuishu and Tsuikoku, thickly lacquered wooden wares, were imported from China alongside other artistic crafts. Beginning in the Meiji period through the Early Showa became the emergence of innovative boxes shaped and decorated reflecting modernist sensibilities, works drawing on historical styles and decorative schemes were revived and copies of famous boxes were prepared. Elaborately crafted sets of writing boxes, document boxes, and writing tables were often featured in world expositions, as they represented indigenous Japanese calligraphy traditions. Westerners began collecting Japanese writing boxes in earnest from the early Meiji period onward.

Condition: Excellent meaning the piece is perfect with a very slight indication of age/wear with no other damage of any kind and no restoration. The box has wonderful shading throughout to make the patterns more prominent with approximately three or more coats of urushi lacquer. Perfect example for the collector of Japanese lacquerwork. Prospective buyers are strongly advised to satisfy themselves as to the description prior to making a purchase.