A Very Fine Rectangular Lacquer Box and Cover with Internal Tray

A Very Fine Rectangular Lacquer Box and Cover with Internal Tray
The lid depicting a large Carp breaking through the water surface
Lacquer, gold, mother-of-pearl, silver
Japan
Meiji period / Late 19th Century

Size: 4.5cm high, 11.5cm wide, 9.5cm deep - 1¾ ins high, 4½ ins wide, 3¾ ins deep

Koi ‘nishikigoi’ is an informal name for the coloured variants of carp kept for their ornamental enjoyment and appreciation. There are many varieties of ornamental koi, originating from the breeding that began in Niigata, Japan in the early 19th century. The silver plaque depicting the Koi breaking the water, for the owner of the box to be reminded of ate serenity of this majestic fish. Signed to the lower right hand side.

Ex Private UK collection

A Very Fine Rectangular Lacquer Box and Cover with Internal Tray