Late 20th Century Hollywood Regency Black Lacquer & Abalone Jewelry Cabinet

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Description

A finely crafted black lacquer jewelry cabinet featuring luminous mother-of-pearl inlay with elegant crane and moon motifs set among flowing … Read more A finely crafted black lacquer jewelry cabinet featuring luminous mother-of-pearl inlay with elegant crane and moon motifs set among flowing pine branches and garden scenes.

This smaller companion piece possesses the same refined workmanship and visual sophistication as its larger counterpart, executed with exceptional attention to proportion and detail. The satin-black lacquer surface provides a dramatic backdrop for the iridescent shell inlay, which shifts beautifully through tones of pearl, silver, blue, violet, and sea green depending on the light.

The decoration is especially graceful here — cranes glide beneath a moonlit sky while flowering pine branches sweep across the cabinet in a composition that feels serene, balanced, and unmistakably luxurious. The imagery carries classic East Asian symbolism associated with longevity, harmony, endurance, and tranquility.

Opening doors reveal four fitted drawers accented with delicate butterfly-form inlays and striking cinnabar-red interiors, adding a rich hidden contrast against the restrained exterior palette. Silver-tone butterfly clasp hardware completes the presentation beautifully.

Particularly noteworthy is the quality of the lacquer and shell work throughout. The abalone inlay is entirely flush with the lacquer surface — smooth to the touch with no raised edges whatsoever — a hallmark of higher-end production rarely found in decorative export pieces of this era.

Likely dating to the late 20th century, possibly 1970s–1980s, and stylistically reminiscent of fine Korean or Japanese lacquerware produced for upscale boutiques and collectors of Asian decorative arts.

Condition is excellent with virtually no signs of use observed. Lacquer retains a rich, even finish with only the most minimal evidence of gentle shelf placement to the underside.

An elegant and highly decorative cabinet ideal for jewelry, keepsakes, writing accessories, or display within Hollywood Regency, Chinoiserie, Asian Modern, or eclectic interiors. See less