Tiered Food Box with Summer and Autumn Fruits 1850 - 1900

This four-tiered food box, or "jubako," crafted by renowned Japanese lacquer artist Shibata Zeshin, is a testament to the beauty of nature and the artistry of Japanese lacquerware. The box features delicate depictions of summer and autumn fruits, leaves, and branches on a dark brown ground, showcasing Zeshin's mastery of the intricate maki-e technique. The meticulous details and vibrant colors of the painted fruits and foliage, combined with the smooth lacquered surface, create a visual symphony of texture and color that reflects the changing seasons. The "jubako" was a staple in traditional Japanese cuisine and served as a portable container for food. Zeshin's intricate artwork transformed a functional object into a work of art, showcasing his renowned talent for capturing the essence of nature in his lacquerwork.