Antique Japanese Meiji Era (C1880) Red Lacquer Soup Bowls W/ Koi Fish Lid

This pair of antique Japanese early Meiji Era (c. 1870 or as far back as late Edo) black lacquer bowls with lids were hand turned from cryptomeria wood with over twenty layers of black lacquer. Japanese lacquer is considered the finest in the world. This lacquer was as black as could be achieved in its day but under bright light it will appear a deep rich chocolate brown. This type of bowl was often used for miso soup or white rice.

Having been in storage for over a century, with exception to minor signs of use and minor lacquer separation on a few edges these bowls remains in fine condition are in good polish. Each bowl measures 5 1/2" in diameter by 3 1/3" tall with lid (14 x 9 cm). Please note some damage to the third bowl in picture number 9. 

We have three bowls available for purchase individually as seen in pictures 10, 11 and 12. One bowl is included with each order.