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Turtle Lacquerware Writing Box
Turtle Lacquerware Writing Box
Turtle Lacquerware Writing Box
Turtle Lacquerware Writing Box
Turtle Lacquerware Writing Box
Turtle Lacquerware Writing Box
Turtle Lacquerware Writing Box
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Turtle Lacquerware Writing Box

  • This rare 19th-century suzuribako exemplifies late Edo or early Meiji lacquer artistry
  • Sculpted as a turtle, it features a matte gold lacquer finish and a crystal lid knob
  • Inside, it houses an inkstone, a silver water dropper, gold-capped brushes and other materials
  • The lid’s interior showcases a gold-lacquer minogame turtle scene, an example of stunning technique
  • Get complete item description here
$9,850
Item No. 32-0519

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Description
Turtle Lacquerware Writing Box
19th-century

This rare 19th-century turtle-shaped suzuribako (writing box) is made with exquisite Japanese lacquer artistry and imaginative design. Every element reflects the exceptional craftsmanship of the late Edo or early Meiji period. Sculpted to resemble a turtle within its shell, the box is finished in matte gold lacquer, its lid adorned with a crystal knob. Inside, it houses essential calligraphy tools: an inkstone, a finely engraved silver water dropper, two. . .
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Turtle Lacquerware Writing Box
19th-century

This rare 19th-century turtle-shaped suzuribako (writing box) is made with exquisite Japanese lacquer artistry and imaginative design. Every element reflects the exceptional craftsmanship of the late Edo or early Meiji period. Sculpted to resemble a turtle within its shell, the box is finished in matte gold lacquer, its lid adorned with a crystal knob. Inside, it houses essential calligraphy tools: an inkstone, a finely engraved silver water dropper, two brushes with gold-lacquered caps and a miniature sword-shaped letter opener with a lacquered scabbard and silver fittings. The lid’s interior reveals a breathtaking gold-lacquer scene on a black ro-iro background, depicting a minogame turtle—a symbol of longevity—amid delicate aquatic motifs. The interplay of matte exterior and glossy interior enhances its visual impact, making this a stunning example of Japanese craftsmanship. 

4“ high x 6 3/4” wide x 8“ deep 
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Turtle Lacquerware Writing Box
Period: 19th Century
Origin: Asia
Type: Decorative Boxes
Depth: 8.0 in. (20.32 cm)
Width: 6.75 in. (17.15 cm)
Height: 4.0 in. (10.16 cm)
Turtle Lacquerware Writing Box
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Buy with Confidence

At M.S. Rau, we are committed to building a long-term, rewarding relationship with each and every client. That’s why your purchase is backed by our 125% guarantee.

Learn More

The M.S. Rau Difference

The M.S. Rau Difference

The M.S. Rau Difference

Our philosophy has always been to offer clients only the very finest antiques, works of art and jewelry, and to back every transaction with the highest level of customer service. Earning your trust and delivering only the very best pieces is our top priority.

-Bill Rau, Third-Generation Owner

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M.S. Rau is committed to offering fine art of the highest caliber and we seek paintings and sculpture by historically renowned artists, often with impressive provenance. The large majority of our works of art come from private. . .

M.S. Rau is committed to offering fine art of the highest caliber and we seek paintings and sculpture by historically renowned artists, often with impressive provenance. The large majority of our works of art come from private collections; many are fresh to the market. Founded on Bill Rau’s expertise in the field, our specialisms range from Old Master pictures to Modern Art masterpieces. We regularly exhibit Dutch, Flemish, and Italian Old Masters, Academic, Orientalist, Barbizon, Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, Maritime & Sporting, British Neoclassical and American Illustration.

Our experienced fine art consultants offer personalized and confidential fine art consultation services to all clients. Whether you are looking to begin collecting art, grow an existing collection, or redefine your collecting strategy, M.S. Rau can support you on this journey.

Jewelry

For more than a century, M.S. Rau has offered clients a superb selection of the highest quality jewelry. From the rarest colored diamonds, to the most sublime gemstones, to the most exquisite designer jewelry, M.S. Rau houses. . .

For more than a century, M.S. Rau has offered clients a superb selection of the highest quality jewelry. From the rarest colored diamonds, to the most sublime gemstones, to the most exquisite designer jewelry, M.S. Rau houses an extraordinary collection of fine jewels to satisfy the most discerning collector. Stunning creations by Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Harry Winston and Patek Philippe are offered alongside extreme rarities such as vivid yellow, pink and blue diamonds, coveted Burma and Kashmir sapphires and elusive Golconda diamonds prized for their fire and perfection. Iconic jewels from the Art Deco, Edwardian, Art Nouveau and Victorian periods round out the collection.

Antiques

Since 1912, M.S. Rau has been recognized as a leader in the antiques industry and today our collections of rare silver, furniture, clocks, porcelain, glass and objets d'art are second to none. Our commitment to curating the. . .

Since 1912, M.S. Rau has been recognized as a leader in the antiques industry and today our collections of rare silver, furniture, clocks, porcelain, glass and objets d'art are second to none. Our commitment to curating the world’s most extraordinary and beautiful treasures has remained steadfast and our acquisition philosophy is simple: seek out and acquire only the very finest works whose provenance, beauty and rarity set them apart from all others. Our clients can be certain that each and every piece in our gallery has been hand-selected and carefully vetted for authenticity, condition and provenance. And, because our network of contacts spans generations, we are often able to acquire pieces that may have otherwise never been available on the market.

Whether you are just starting your collection, adding to an existing collection or even decorating your home, our team’s knowledge and experience can assist you in your endeavor. We have services and procedures in place to make your acquisition process both enjoyable and efficient.