701
Set of Japanese Kaiawase with three Kaioke (laquer storage boxes)
Estimate:
$5,000 - $7,000
Passed
Live Auction
Jewelry, Furniture, Art & Fine Asian | October Auction
Description
Set of Japanese Kaiawase with three Kaioke (laquer storage boxes). Meiji period, Kaiawase with 493 painted shells, Makie lacquer, gold and parcel gilt kaioke with floral design and mistudomoe, 6.5"h x 6.5"w x 7.5"d. Provenance: Property of the Mitsui (Koishikawa) family, a prominent Japanese zaibatsu (conglomerate) since the Meiji period.
Note: A century ago, Princess Hiroko of the Shimazu clan, one of Japan's most powerful Daimyo families, married the heir to the Koishikawa branch of the Mitsui family, Japan's wealthiest merchant dynasty. To celebrate the union, the Shimazu family commissioned exquisite gifts for the newlyweds including this offered piece.
Shimazu Clan History
The Shimazu clan, originating in Satsuma Province in the 12th century, ascended to power through strategic alliances and military victories and became one of the most powerful Daimyo under the Shogun. Their patronage of the arts, including Satsuma ware, and support for other crafts like lacquerware and sword smithing, played a significant role in preserving traditional Japanese culture.
Mitsui Family History
The Mitsui family's business roots began in 1673 with a kimono shop. From there, they grew into the Mitsui Group, a conglomerate that symbolized Japan's economic development. The group diversified into banking and money exchange in the Edo period, laying the groundwork for Japan's financial system. During the Meiji period's westernization, Mitsui expanded into mining and textiles, driving Japan's industrial revolution. Mitsui & Co., founded in 1876, played a key role in global trade. Despite facing challenges, the Mitsui Group remained resilient and innovative, contributing to Japan's post-war recovery and continued global presence.
Note: A century ago, Princess Hiroko of the Shimazu clan, one of Japan's most powerful Daimyo families, married the heir to the Koishikawa branch of the Mitsui family, Japan's wealthiest merchant dynasty. To celebrate the union, the Shimazu family commissioned exquisite gifts for the newlyweds including this offered piece.
Shimazu Clan History
The Shimazu clan, originating in Satsuma Province in the 12th century, ascended to power through strategic alliances and military victories and became one of the most powerful Daimyo under the Shogun. Their patronage of the arts, including Satsuma ware, and support for other crafts like lacquerware and sword smithing, played a significant role in preserving traditional Japanese culture.
Mitsui Family History
The Mitsui family's business roots began in 1673 with a kimono shop. From there, they grew into the Mitsui Group, a conglomerate that symbolized Japan's economic development. The group diversified into banking and money exchange in the Edo period, laying the groundwork for Japan's financial system. During the Meiji period's westernization, Mitsui expanded into mining and textiles, driving Japan's industrial revolution. Mitsui & Co., founded in 1876, played a key role in global trade. Despite facing challenges, the Mitsui Group remained resilient and innovative, contributing to Japan's post-war recovery and continued global presence.
Condition
Detailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at online@clars.com. The absence of a condition statement does not mean that the lot is in perfect condition
