Gourd shaped box 1857

This Gourd Shaped Box was created by Sano Chokan out of lacquered wood. Lacquerware is an ancient craft, built on the sap of the lacquer tree, carefully harvested and applied in many thin layers. You can see the technique's capacity for refinement in this small box. The reflective surface catches the light, and you can almost feel the coolness of the material. The labor invested in this box elevates it beyond mere utility. The glossy finish and detailed craftsmanship speak to a tradition deeply embedded in Japanese culture. Boxes like these weren’t just containers; they were statements of taste, artistry, and social standing. In its elegant form, this Gourd Box challenges the boundaries of art and craft, reminding us of the social life embedded in all handmade objects.