Pipe case depicting Chinese scene c. 1870s

This 19th century Japanese pipe case by Tozan is decorated with an intricate scene from Chinese mythology. Crafted in the *maki-e* technique, the case features a red lacquer background and raised silver and gold details that depict a figure in a landscape. The case is a fine example of Japanese decorative arts, demonstrating the skill of the maker in creating a small but striking object. *Maki-e* is a Japanese lacquerwork technique that involves sprinkling powdered gold, silver, or other materials onto wet lacquer. This technique is often used to create intricate designs and patterns on objects such as lacquerware, furniture, and weapons.