A 17th Century Japanese lacquer box depicting, Inrō, a Fox and Monkey

Japanese: Edo Period 17th Century 

A rare and highly sophisticated Japanese lacquer box of the late seventeenth century, decorated in gold and coloured maki-e on a rich nashiji ground. The cover is conceived as an elegant assemblage of luxury objects associated with the cultivated life of the aristocracy, including a group of finely rendered inrō, folded poetry papers, letters, fans and personal accessories. Arranged as though casually set down, these objects evoke the literary and artistic world of classical Japan, where poetry, correspondence and aesthetic accomplishment were central to courtly life.

Among the objects appear a fox and a monkey, introducing elements of wit and symbolism. The fox (kitsune), associated with intelligence, transformation and the deity Inari, adds an air of mystery and playful ambiguity. The monkey (saru), traditionally linked with intelligence, protection and the imitation of human behaviour, provides a lively counterpoint to the refined literary setting.

The interior tray presents a more contemplative scene, decorated with a full moon, a folding screen, a low stand and scholarly objects. The moon, one of the most important motifs in Japanese art and literature, symbolises reflection, memory and the fleeting nature of beauty. Together, the exterior and interior form a unified meditation on the pleasures of cultivated life, moving from the material world of poetry and artistic accomplishment to the inner realm of contemplation and poetic inspiration. Executed with exceptional technical skill, the box exemplifies the sophistication and intellectual richness of early Edo period lacquer.