Edo Japanese Black Lacquer and Gilt Trunk

Edo Japanese Black Lacquer and Gilt Trunk

A striking example of 17th-century Japanese craftsmanship, this remarkable storage chest embodies the refined elegance for which the Edo period is celebrated. Finished in lustrous black lacquer offset with gilt detailing, the trunk embodies the classic sophistication of traditional Japanese cabinet furniture.

Origin: Japan
Date: 17th century
Material: Black lacquer, gilt, engraved brass mounts

Dimensions: Height: 74 cm (29.2 in); Width: 152 cm (60 in); Depth: 66 cm (26 in)

Condition: Excellent original patina; minor age-related wear commensurate with period

During the Edo period, luxurious lacquerware became a symbol of status among Japanese nobility, and examples such as this large lacquer and gilt trunk are highly prized by enthusiasts and collectors alike. Comparable pieces are preserved in collections such as the Victoria and Albert Museum, attesting to their enduring appeal and cultural significance. The trunk’s harmonious proportions and ornate brass mounts suggest influence from both domestic design traditions and subtle nods to European export taste, as seen in select 17th-century Japanese storage chests.

Notable Features:

• Superbly polished black lacquer surface with gleaming gold gilt details highlights the refined craftsmanship typical of Edo artisans.
• Domed, hinged lid and protective engraved brass mounts not only provide elegance but also enhance durability.
• The sizeable scale and rare polychrome flame wallpaper interior are distinctive and seldom encountered in similar storage chests.
• Two robust drop handles at either end for ease of movement—a practical touch for such a substantial piece of cabinet furniture.

With its dramatic Rococo-esque curves and finely worked surfaces, this Japanese lacquer trunk makes a strong design statement, seamlessly blending aesthetic appeal with functionality. Its rarity, distinguished provenance, and the always-desirable combination of scale and craftsmanship grant it exceptional collecting value. Ideal as the centrepiece for a curated collection, or as a decorative yet functional storage solution in an elegant interior, this Edo Japanese black lacquer and gilt trunk is a testament to both its era and the enduring allure of Japanese artistry.