Antique Japanese "Kodansu" (Miniature Lacquered Table Cabinet)

The Japanese inscription on the back shows it to have been made by Sato in Shizuoka prefecture. Most likely late 19th. Century early 20th. ie Meiji period. Dimensions H- 17, W - 13, D - 13. The background lacquer is a feather patterned brown with natural scenes very finely decorated in gold and black takamaki-e work to the front and top. The knobs and lifting handle are delicately designed with engraved back plates. Inside the drawers the technique of "Nahiji" whereby tiny flakes of gold and silver are mixed in with the lacquer has been used which gives it an extra little special touch. The cabinet would have been used for jewellery, art materials, incense or small personal trinkets and belongings. The fineness of construction, design and decoration shows it to be a quality piece. There are of course small evidences of use commensurate with its age. But the condition is generally sound and good. A lovely little piece of furniture.