Victorian Japanese Lacquer Hanging Letter Box 19th Century

Details

Description

A Victorian Aesthetic Period letter box that is intricately decorated with gilt. The gold contrasts with the black of the … Read more A Victorian Aesthetic Period letter box that is intricately decorated with gilt. The gold contrasts with the black of the lacquer.

A wooden box has been lacquered and painted with gilt Japanese scenes. The paintings are intricate, artistic, and very delicate. The box was probably a box for letters as there are missing slats within the box for compartments. The box base has two missing bun feet and two existing bun feet. It can rest on a surface with a slight slant but isn't that noticeable. There is also what appears to be a white laquer or stain on the bottom. This is only visible if yo lift it up.

MEASUREMENTS
6 ½ in (16.5 cm) wide x 3 in (7.6 cm) deep x 6 in (15.2 cm) tall. Weighs 6.8 oz.

CONDITION
The vertical slats within the box are missing. The gilt paintings are in good condition. There are losses to the lacquer, especially around the hole used for hanging. There is wear to the lacquer on edges, the back, and base, as well as some crazing. The two back feet are missing, but could be replaced very easily (we didn’t replace them in order to maintain originality)

A great antique to add to an Aesthetic Movement collection or use to put letters in. See less