Page 151 - Fine Japanese Art October 28, 2020 Galerie Zacke

145 | A VERY RARE AND
LARGE WOOD
WELL COVER
WITH LACQUERED
DÉCOR

Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912)

The base arranged with four
rectangular natural wood
panels set on a modern base,
the panels decorated with
many lacquered takamaki-e
insects and a frog. A tree
branch embellished with
lacquered leafy vines,
consisting of three parts, is
inset into the design and a
finely lacquered takamaki-e
monkey is climbing up on the
side. At the end of the branch
there is a carved roof, where a
three-dimensionally lacquered
snake lurks – unbeknownst
to the poor innocent monkey.
The scales of the snake and fur
of the monkey are masterfully
lacquered. Attached to the
roof with a hook are two finely
carved wood buckets, each
outlined with interlocking rings
simulating iron but entirely
carved in wood, which are
suspended from a rope and
are utilized to transport water
out of the well.

A masterful and rustic Meiji
creation intended for export
to Great Britain. A one of
a kind collector’s item. The
composition includes five
individual parts.
Total HEIGHT 115 cm

Condition: Excellent condition
with minor and natural
crackling and splitting
to the wood. Minor
wear to lacquer décor.
Provenance:
British collection.

Estimate EUR 5,000
Starting price EUR 2,500

145