Description
This item is a Bento (弁当, lunch box). This Bento has a gorgeous appearance, painted entirely in black lacquer and decorated with the Makie (蒔絵) technique. The Makie is a typical Japanese lacquer art technique developed uniquely in Japan for about 1,200 years. Firstly, it needs to draw a picture with lacquer on the surface with a thin brush. Next, sprinkle the gold powder from above to show the pattern before the lacquer hardens. This technique makes a gorgeous and elegant look to works, as seen in this Bento.
The primary motif featured on this bento box is “Shōchikubai” (松竹梅), a combination of pine (matsu), bamboo (take), and plum blossom (ume). These plants are admired for retaining their vitality even in harsh winter conditions, and have long symbolized good fortune, resilience, and celebration in Japan. The term Shōchikubai originated from the Chinese theme “Three Friends of Winter” (歲寒三友), which was introduced to Japan during the Heian period (794–1185). This bento set features Shōchikubai motifs on both the tiered food box and the cutlery case, reflecting auspicious symbolism throughout.
The accompanying tray is also adorned with traditional Japanese auspicious patterns. One design, nami-chidori (波千鳥, waves and plovers), depicts birds flying above waves and symbolizes a harmonious relationship and overcoming life’s hardships together—making it a popular motif for family safety and marital harmony. The crane (鶴, Tsuru), often associated with the phrase “a crane lives for a thousand years,” represents longevity and is also a symbol of marital bliss, as cranes are known to stay with the same partner for life. Accenting these motifs are touches of raden (螺鈿, mother-of-pearl inlay), adding refined luster and elegance to the design.
While a simpler box would suffice for mere storage, such a richly decorated piece was likely used for special meals or festive occasions. In modern times, it would make a beautiful interior accent, adding a touch of sophistication and tradition to your living space.
*As this item is an antique, please check each photo and ensure its condition.
*Please keep in mind that one of the caps for the Sake bottle is missing.
【About us】
Samurai Museum is located in Tokyo, Japan, exhibiting antique artifacts related to the Samurai history. Samurai Museum Shop is the place for those who are interested in Japanese culture and craftsmanship. We deal with antique Samurai swords/armor, traditional crafts made in Japan and so on.
【Payment method】
We accept payment through Stripe (Credit card), PayPal, Apple Pay or ChromePay, all of which are secure payment methods. Also, you don’t need to make an account on Stripe for the checkout. If you prefer other payment method, please contact us. You may either pay in JPY, USD, AUD, CAD, EUR, CHF or GBP. The price is set in Japanese Yen. Prices in other currencies are automatically calculated based on the latest exchange rate.
【Antique Japanese item and Export process】
After receiving the full payment from you, we will apply for its export permit from the Board of Education to legally export the item to other countries. It normally takes around 2 to 4 weeks to receive this permit. And we would like you to expect at least 1.0 – 1.5 months for your order to arrive at your given address after you ordered.
【Shipping duration】
We normally ship via EMS (Express Mail Service) provided by Japan Post. It usually takes at least 5-14 days to deliver the package after you place an order. Time of delivery is estimated as accurately as possible by the carrier but does not take into account any delays beyond our control such as by inclement weather, post office holiday seasons.
We offer Free International Shipping as long as we can ship your order by EMS. If you prefer other shipping carriers, please contact us.
We will inform you of the order’s tracking number via email. Please make sure you fill out your valid email address correctly.
*If you like to make sure if EMS shipping is available to your country, please contact us.
【How to make sure the condition】
Please keep in mind that what you are going to purchase is an antique item. We uploaded high resolution photos for you to check its condition thoroughly. If you like to see more photos with different angles, please feel free to contact us. We will be happy to send them to you so that you can make informed decision.
It is essential for us to know that you are happy with your choice of antique item and we are prepared to use the best of our ability to serve you.
Would you like see some more antique items for sale? Please check the link below. We hope you can find your favorite item.
https://www.samuraimuseum.jp/shop/product-category/antique/
