A pictorial-style export lacquer coffer


Edo period (1615-1868), late 17th/early 18th centuryOf conventional form with a hinged curved lid, decorated in shell and lacquer with large stylised birds flying among seasonal flowers, the sides lacquered in gold hiramaki-e with a solitary butterfly, the interior lacquered plain red, the corners of the lid and body applied with copper-gilt fittings, the sides with a swing handle, the front with an elaborate lock-plate in the form of a butterfly and clasp. 33.6cm x 60.5cm x 29cm (13¼in x 23¾in x 11 3/8in).
|For similar types, see Oliver Impey and Christiaan Jörg, Japanese Export Lacquer 1580-1850, Amsterdam, Hotei Publishing, 2005, p.154, nos.352 and 353.