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VINTAGE JAPANESE SHOWA ERA KAMAKURA-BORI HAND-CARVED LACQUER SMALL CABINET (KO-DANSU) - PEONY MOTIF
An exceptional piece of authentic Japanese traditional craft heritage: a 3-drawer tabletop cabinet (Ko-dansu / Komono-ire) created in the historic Kamakura-bori (鎌倉彫) hand-carved lacquerware style. Crafted during the Showa period (mid-20th century) from natural wood and veneer, this cabinet features a striking carved Peony (Botan / 牡丹) floral pattern spanning across the front drawers, finished in characteristic deep red and black layers of natural Urushi lacquer.
[THE HISTORY & ARTISTRY OF KAMAKURA-BORI (鎌倉彫)]Kamakura-bori is one of Japan\'s most celebrated traditional woodcarving and lacquering arts, originating in the Kamakura period (1185–1333) when Buddhist sculptors began creating carved wooden lacquerware inspired by imported Chinese carved lacquer pieces.
- Relief Carving (Nikuai-bori): Craftsmen manually carve bold three-dimensional motifs—such as the noble Peony, representing prosperity and honor—into seasoned timber.- Chisel Texturing (Monomachi / Nomi-me): The surrounding surfaces feature characteristic chisel marks that scatter light and give the wood an organic, tactile warmth.- Layered Urushi Lacquering: Finished with multiple layers of black and vermilion red Urushi lacquer. Over decades of gentle handling, the underlying red tones gradually rub through the black outer layer, creating a revered antique patina (similar to Negoro lacquer style).
[CABINET DESIGN & SPECIFICATIONS]- 3-Drawer Storage Layout: Features three smooth-sliding drawers with clean interior compartments, perfect for organizing fine jewelry, vintage watches, stationery, or personal treasures.- Modern Sleek Handles: Outfitted with solid horizontal bar pull handles that complement the rich traditional carved exterior.
- Origin: Japan- Period: Vintage Showa Era (20th Century)- Primary Materials: Natural Wood, Wood Veneer, Urushi Lacquer- Total Weight: Approx. 1,500 g (3.31 lbs)
- Dimensions: * Width: Approx. 18.2 cm / 7.2 in * Depth: Approx. 21.0 cm / 8.3 in * Height: Approx. 23.7 cm / 9.3 in
[CONDITION]Offered in excellent vintage pre-owned condition. Displays gentle cosmetic wear and light superficial edge scratches consistent with age and careful historical display. Free of major cracks, structural looseness, or severe lacquer loss. All three drawers slide open and close smoothly, and the interior wood remains clean. Please inspect all high-resolution photos for exact details.
[RECOMMENDED USES]- Tabletop organizer for jewelry, fountain pens, watches, trinkets, or office desk items.- Elegant Japanese artistic accent piece for tea rooms, living rooms, entryways, or study displays.- High-value gift or addition for collectors of Japanese Urushi lacquer, Mingei folk art, and vintage woodwork.
[SHIPPING]Free Express International Shipping via EMS (Express Mail Service) with full tracking and insurance included.
