Japanese, pair of Shell-Game Boxes (Kaioke) decorated with pine, plum, and bamboo (the three friends of winter), Meiji Period, 19th century. Black lacquer with gold makie on wood, red lacquer interiors, silk tassels. Used for storing painted shells for the shell matching game (Kaiawase). In this game, two sets of shells, with related or identical scenes from classical Japanese tales, such as The Tale of Genji, were required. One set would be placed face-down in front of the participants. The second set remained in one of the two elegantly-decorated lacquer buckets in which the entire sets were stored. Players removed the shells one at a time from the box. They looked at the scene on the shell and attempted to find its mate by turning over one shell from the other set at each turn. The player with the most pairs at the end of the game was declared winner. This game was invented by courtiers in the Heian period (794-1185) and remained exceptionally popular throughout the Edo period (1615-1868), especially at New Year's time. Since each shell had only one suitable match, these sets were considered auspicious symbols for newlyweds. Thus, kaiawase sets were often included in the wedding trousseau of high-ranking samurai ladies and aristocrats.
Condition: Apart from the fact that the lacquer finish has dulled from overexposure to light and some minor chips, these boxes appear to be in good condition. A pair that measures approximately 19 x 17 inches each.

Condition: Apart from the fact that the lacquer finish has dulled from overexposure to light and some minor chips, these boxes are in good condition.