Japanese Lacquer & Metalwork
ENGLISH FURNITURE & ASIAN ART
A Shibayama-style inlaid carved mother-of-pearl rectangular Kodansu (small cabinet)
Japan, Meiji era (1868-1912)
A Mother-of-Pearl Shibayama Lacquer Kodansu
The kodansu: Height: 4.06” 10.3cm – length: 5.12” 13cm – width: 3.15” 8cm
The stand: Height: 0.79” 2cm – length: 5.51” 14cm – width: 3.94” 10cm
This elegant rectangular kodansu features three graduated drawers, each accented by delicately carved bud-form pulls. The exterior surfaces are lavishly decorated in the Shibayama tradition, showcasing dense clusters of hydrangea, peony, camellia, narcissus, and cherry blossoms meticulously rendered in finely carved mother-of-pearl and colored shell. The subtle variations in tone and translucency lend a remarkable depth to the composition, allowing the iridescent inlays to shimmer gently as they catch the light.
Each vibrant floral panel is framed by narrow borders of nashiji lacquer, which offer a warm, textured contrast to the luminous shellwork—a meticulous finish mirrored across the cabinet's interior and underside. Elevated on a detachable, intricately carved wooden stand, this exquisite piece transcends its functional purpose, transforming a traditional storage cabinet into a masterfully crafted celebration of natural beauty.