Autumn Grasses

Vintage 1982

AUTUMN GRASSES BOOK BOX

A superb Wajima lacquer book bo. Autumn grasses inlaid gold leaf Chinkin.
Refer to the large images for full of details of quality and condition.
As new in mint condition, a stored family treasure.
Original Tomobako wood box. The characters on the cover reading Wa Jima Nuri Bun Ko - Wajima lacquer book box.
Length about : 29.5cm Width about : 22 cm
Height about: 6.5
Weight about: 743 grams
A$175


Chinkin
is a very specialized Japanese Lacquer Art technique that involves carving and engraving decorative designs on a lacquer surface.
It is believed that the Chinkin technique of decorating Japanese lacquer ware originated in China during the Sung dynasty (960 to 1279).
It was introduced to Japan during the Muromachi period (1338 to1573). This is a very meticulous technique that involves the use of fine chisels and carving tools that a Master Artist uses to craft the most intricate motifs.
Once the design is engraved onto a lacquer surface, it is sprinkled with gold, silver or other precious metal powders.
There are less than a handful of Chinkin Artists that continue to produce these rare works of art reflecting all the legendary techniques.
The finest quality wood lacquer in the world is that made in Japan.
Made using only the best woods such as, Zelkova (keyaki), Japanese Chestnut, Japanese Cypress, Magnolia, Cherry.
It takes approximately 6 months and 23 different processes from start to finish to produce each individual Handmade Item


Wajima Lacquer:
Lacquer ware production in Wajima is thought to date back to ancient times. Lacquer products from 6,800 years ago have also been discovered at the Mibiki Ruins, also on the Noto Peninsula . In Wajima, lacquer products have been excavated at the Yadani B ruins, which are remains from the Heian period.
The oldest surviving Wajima lacquerware is said to be the vermilion door of the former main hall of Juzo Shrine (Kawaimachi, Wajima City), which is said to have been made in 1524 during the Muromachi period .
It is said that the current Wajima-nuri technique was established during the Kanbun era in the early Edo period. Wajima, located at the northern tip of the Noto Peninsula, was a port of call for ships such as the Kitamae-bune, and by this time they had already expanded their sales channels by taking advantage of shipping.