A FINE SHELL-INLAID LACQUER ‘BUTTERFLIES’ BENTO-BAKO (PORTABLE LUNCH SET)

拍品描述

A FINE SHELL-INLAID LACQUER ‘BUTTERFLIES’ BENTO-BAKO (PORTABLE LUNCH SET) Japan, early 20th century, Meiji period (1868-1912) to Taisho period (1912-1926) Superbly crafted in lacquered wood, of upright form, comprising a cylindrical body joined to a secondary crescent-shaped volume. Each section is constructed from multiple stackable compartments, the curved units resting upon two distinctive silver compartments, beautifully incised in fine kebori with butterfly motifs. Both main volumes are placed on an oval base fitted with an overhanging handle with straight sides and rounded corners, accompanied by a smaller hinged silver handle. The exterior of the basket exhibits a finely polished dark brown lacquer ground, skillfully decorated in gold takamaki-e to depict a group of large, fluttering butterflies, with wings inlaid in mother-of-pearl. The design is framed above and below by checkered patterns. The lacquered wooden handle, whose sides are rendered in openwork, is further adorned with butterflies, one of which forms the apex where the smaller silver handle is mounted. The interior of each lacquered compartment is finished in striking vermillion-red lacquer, with a few of the trays and interior boxes further decorated with golden lacquer butterflies. The rims are highlighted in gold fundame. SIZE 43.4 x 31.8 x 21.9 cm With a wood storage box. Bento-bako such as the present lot were designed to facilitate outdoor gatherings such as hanami, where individuals could enjoy a portable, elegant meal surrounded by the beauty of cherry blossoms. The stackable compartments were intended to separate different foods, allowing for a variety of items such as rice, fish, vegetables, and sweets to be carried together. The ornate design and functionality of this bento-bako reflect its role in organizing and enhancing these carefully staged seasonal gatherings.

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