Page 259 - Fine Japanese Art October 28, 2020 Galerie Zacke

265 | A LARGE IVORY-INLAID GOLD
LACQUER MARRIAGE TRAY
Japan, late 19th century

The tray of lobed rectangular form, the border with two kinds of
mon alternating, symbolizing the merging of two families, the tray
decorated in hiramaki-e and takamaki-e as well as ivory inlays with
three sages offering wisdom to the emperor, whose left hand is
clasping a staff, signifying his approval. One of the sages is writing
an inscription on a low table, with an inlaid soapstone shishi seal in
one corner, an attendant holding up a fan beside the large curtain,
with a pine tree, large chrysanthemums, and reishi-shaped clouds.
SIZE 51.7 x 70 cm
Condition: Good condition with traces of wear, one of the ivory
heads likely replaced.
Provenance: British collection. Collector label to reverse.
Estimate EUR 3,000
Starting price EUR 1,500

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