A rare Masonic Nagasaki lacquer box

EDO PERIOD (EARLY 19TH CENTURY)

Details

A rare Masonic Nagasaki lacquer box
Edo Period (Early 19th Century)
Inlaid in aogai with an octagonal panel to the cover containing various Masonic symbols surrounded by sprays of plum-blossom, peony, iris and chrysanthemum, the sloping sides with a band of stylised flowers and foliage above various exotic flowers, the inside of the lid with a continuous oval band of plum-and cherry-blossoms between sprays of morning glory, plum, cherry and chrysanthemum (some parts of aogai missing), together with parts of a blue Masonic sash decorated with symbols
37.4 x 23.6 x 10.5 cm.

Lot Essay

Most Nagasaki lacquer ware is European in shape and its distinguishing feature is a combination of pearly-white and iridescent shell cut paper-thin with the resulting translucency used for pictorial effect by backing it with colours. This box was for Masonic implements and made specially to order. The various emblems refer to beliefs as Healing, Infinity and Inner Truth.

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