Fine Miniature Japanese Kodansu with Lacquer Inlays

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A fine Japanese miniature kodansu constructed from Kaki wood (Persimmon) circa 19th century, late Meiji period. With its expressive exotic … Read more A fine Japanese miniature kodansu constructed from Kaki wood (Persimmon) circa 19th century, late Meiji period. With its expressive exotic wood grains and exposed tenon construction, the small table-top chest with two outlined drawers showcases fine surface decoration of gold and silver maki-e in low relief. Composed in a poetic and sparse fashion, the front and one side of the kodansu features dense arrangements of autumn grasses with seeds pods. The other side and top surface are only highlighted with a pair and a single golden dragonfly respectively. The gold and silver maki-e designs are slightly raised and contrast beautifully with the dark background. The drawers were constructed with Kiri (Paulownia) wood with meticulous black wood pins, visible from the bases. The kodansu is supported by four cornered feet and also inscribed on the base. The signature reads "Made by Gonnosuke in Shōna". Shōna (Shōnai-han) was a feudal domain in Edo period Japan, located in Dewa Province (modern-day Yamagata Prefecture). See less