Title: Japanese wooden lacquer box-Eda Tachibana Zu
Description
A Bunko (文庫) is a traditional Japanese box, also known as Bunko Bako (文庫箱). It was historically used to store books, personal items, or valuables. For centuries, Japanese people have had a custom of keeping important belongings in boxes and have developed various techniques for decorating these containers.
This box has a rectangular shape, and its entire surface is beautifully adorned with intricate plant motifs. The wood is coated with elegant black lacquer, and the designs are created using the Makie (蒔絵) technique. Makie is a traditional Japanese lacquer art technique that has been practiced for over 1,200 years. In this method, a design is first drawn with lacquer using a fine brush, and then gold powder is sprinkled over the wet lacquer to create the pattern before it hardens. This technique imparts a luxurious and refined appearance, as can be seen in the decoration of this Bunko box.
The plants depicted on this Bunko are Tachibana (橘, Citrus tachibana), a native Japanese citrus tree. The fruit, leaves, and flowers of the Tachibana have long been used in Japanese patterns and family crests (家紋, Kamon). The Tachibana also holds special significance during the Hinamatsuri (ひな祭り) or Girls’ Day, celebrated on March 3rd. This festival is dedicated to celebrating the growth and happiness of girls. During Hinamatsuri, families with daughters display hina ningyo (ひな人形, hina dolls), which are traditionally adorned with sakura (cherry blossoms) and tachibana. This practice is based on a centuries-old tradition originating from the Heian period’s court ceremonies, where the arrangement of “Left Cherry Blossom” and “Right Tachibana” was displayed at the Shishinden in the Kyoto Imperial Palace. The Tachibana represents eternal prosperity, while the sakura signifies the arrival of spring. During the festival, these symbols serve as wishes for children’s health and family happiness. This cultural tradition continues to be treasured in modern Japan.
This Bunko box is perfect for storing letters, documents, or other small items. It could also be displayed as a decorative piece in your home, adding a touch of traditional Japanese artistry to your interior.
*As this item is an antique, there are some areas where the lacquer has worn or chipped. Please review all photos and carefully check the condition.
【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.
【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/
