A FINE LACQUERED RYOSHIBAKO (DOCUMENTS BOX) WITH SAKURA TREE, CRANES AND MINOGAMELacquered wood and leatherJapan, 19th centuryThe large rectangular box with inrobuta (flush-fitting) lid, the cover and all sides lacquered in gold takamaki-e with a blossoming cherry tree on a red-gold layer of lacquer below a layer of silver lacquer which is partially polished to create a cloud-like effect. The beautiful gold lacquered sakura tree is inlaid with gold and brown hirame flakes and is particularly dense on the lid. The inside of the lid is lacquered in gold takamaki-e with cranes and minogame, which are symbols of longevity, on a rock above waves with beautiful ferns, the rock further inlaid with hirame flakes. The inside of the box, as well as the lid and underside, with dense nashiji.Shape: Rectangular box with lidDimensions: Size 35 x 45 x 18Condition: Expected wear to lacquer, some areas of the gold lacquer chipped, and extensive scratches to the underside. Particularly worn on the edges, revealing the layer of leather. Generally, in good condition.Provenance: American private collection