An exquisite antique Japanese lacquered Hokkai, a requisite furniture article for Daimyo lords used traditionally for the presenting of cakes and steamed buns in wedding celebrations. This marvelous ribbed box rests upon four flared footed legs and is decorated with lacquer of a roiro ground and gold hiramakie of fine nashiji stylized Tachibana (orange blossom) Mon, indicating that the owner of this hokkai was an imperial descendant of Emperor Bitatsu. The tachibana float poetically along a rippling stream, symbolizing the endless flow of eternity. Of excellent condition, with all the original gilded bronze fittings hand engraved with foliate peony. Japan, circa 1800.
Measuring 17.5 in. (44.45 cm.) high by 15 in. (38.1 cm.) diameter.