Japanese pair of gold lacquered vases with Shibayama inlays late Meiji period

Japanese pair of gold lacquered vases with an unusual tulip-shaped form, each inset with four kinji lacquer panels meticulously executed in Shibayama style with inlays of mother-of-pearl, coconut shell, and coral. The vases are richly worked with hiramaki-e and takamaki-e embellishments depicting lively festival scenes, karako boys (Chinese), chrysanthemums, lilies, peonies, butterflies, cranes, and various birds.
The waisted necks are adorned with interlacing karakusa motifs, emblematic of longevity and prosperity, while the bases display narrow geometric bands of floral motifs, late Meiji period 1868-1912.

Reference: Shibayama 芝山象嵌細工 is the term used to describe the mosaic-like inlay technique used to decorate Japanese objects such as vases, inro, dishes, incense burners, cabinets and panels.

Hiramakie 平蒔絵 a flat sprinkled lacquer technique where the design is raised above the ground only by the thickness of its coats of lacquer.

Takamakie 高蒔絵 a high sprinkled lacquer technique where the lacquer is built up by applying many layers.

Kinji 金地 a lacquer ground with sprinkled gold powder, which has been polished to a high gloss finish.

UK Ivory Act 2018 Exemption Submission Reference 1W18WG1X.

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