Antique Japanese Taisho Era Red Square Lacquered Lidded Bento Lunch Box 9"

This is an antique (c. 1920) Taisho era Japanese lidded lacquer bento box or lunch container. This bright red box features gold (lacquer painting)of (cherry blossoms) and (paper folded) (helmets), all symbols in celebration of boys day. Cryptomeria wood with over 20 thin coats of Japanese (lacquer) red exterior and black bottom interior lacquer. The base and lid appear to be carved from a single piece of wood with the lid handle and base added after. Because of a little warping the lid rocks a bit on the base. The craftsmanship of this container is something seldom seen today.

Having been in storage for most of the past century, this lidded container remains in good polish and in fine condition. It measures 9" square by 4 1/2" tall (23 x 11.5 cm).