Title: Japanese lacquer box-Makie Raden Bunko of waterside lives
Bunko is a kind of box, and it is also called Bunko Bako. It has been used to store books, personal belongings, or valuables. Since ancient times, Japanese people put important things in boxes customarily. And they developed various techniques to decorate boxes.
This box has a rectangular shape with rounded corner. As its lid and body fit together at the rim, this type of structure is classified as Aikuchi Dukuri. The shallow case separates the inside of the box, so it is considered useful to organize items based on their volumes. This box is covered with a black wooden box.
On the front of the lid, you can see a boy holding a fishing rod in his hand and straddling a cow’s back. There is a house in front of them across the river. A huge pine tree stands beside the road, and its branches peek through the clouds. The pine tree has been treated as a symbol of good luck because it keeps its green color by withstanding severe heat and cold. Also, some people believe that mountain hermit lives at pine trees and eat its nuts. Based on this belief, it’s said pine tree represents longevity. The cow horns and some of the pine needles are decorated with Raden technique, accentuated in the gold and black lacquer screen. Now please focus on the roof of the house. As the surface is rough, its material might be sand or stone. It makes a realistic appearance of the thatched roof.
You will find a person who fishes from the water’s edge and flying birds on the box’s sides. By seeing the whole part of this box, including its lid, you can enjoy a view of people’s lives near the waterside.
Japanese apricot is designed on the back of the lid, and its petals are decorated with the Raden technique. Japanese apricots begin to bloom in winter when snow still covers its tree so that this flower tells the arrival of spring. People appreciate its adorable petal shape and scent, gracefully branched tree, and compose many poems. As it comes out in the cold season, it is said that it symbolizes perseverance and vitality.
The shallow box is decorated with some plants which are found along the roadside. The plant that is designed around the middle of the screen seems to be sacred bamboo. It’s named “Nanten” in Japanese, and it’s believed that it will ward off misfortune. This Bunko is the gem that is designed with lots of good-luck talismans such as pine tree, Japanese apricot, sacred bamboo, and so on. It’s useful to store your items. Or, you can also display it to enjoy as a part of the interior decoration in your room.
*Makie……A typical technique of Japanese lacquer art that has been developed uniquely in Japan for about 1200 years. Firstly, it needs to draw a picture with lacquer on the surface with a thin brush. Next, sprinkle gold powder from above to show the pattern before the lacquer hardens. This technique makes a gorgeous and elegant look to works.
*Raden…… It’s a kind decorative technique that is often used for traditional craftworks. It uses the pearl part of seashells and put it into the engraved surface of lacquer or wood. Thanks to its iridescent luster, it gives a luxurious look to works.
*As this item is an antique, please check each photo and ensure its condition.
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【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. If you prefer other payment method, please contact us. After confirming your payment, we will apply for an export permit. You may either pay in JPY, USD, AUD, EUR or GBP. The price is set in Japanese Yen. Prices in other currencies are automatically calculated based on the latest exchange rate.
【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. 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 Bunko 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/