Box with Design of Benkei and a Bell 1862

This small, intricately crafted box is an example of the fine lacquerwork produced by Shibata Zeshin, one of the most celebrated Japanese artists of the 19th century. The box is decorated with a scene depicting the legendary warrior Benkei and a bell, rendered in meticulous detail using the maki-e technique of applying gold and silver powder to lacquer. The dark wood and contrasting gold accents create a striking visual effect, highlighting Zeshin's mastery of traditional Japanese decorative arts.