Elegant and richly detailed, this vintage black lacquer jewelry or keepsake box showcases the timeless beauty of hand-applied mother-of-pearl inlay against a lustrous black lacquer ground.
The exterior is decorated with delicately rendered flowering branches and blossoms crafted from iridescent mother-of-pearl. Each piece of shell appears individually cut and carefully applied, creating a striking contrast between the luminous floral motifs and the deep black lacquer surface. As the box is moved through the light, the inlay reveals flashes of pink, green, blue, and silver, bringing the design to life.
Opening the hinged lid reveals a thoughtfully organized interior with multiple compartments designed for storing jewelry, keepsakes, or personal treasures. The box combines decorative artistry with practical function, making it equally suitable for display or everyday use. Each compartment remains connected by a corded assembly, allowing the compartments to be opened while remaining securely joined. The cord terminates with a threaded bead on each end of the blue silk cord.
The combination of lacquerwork and mother-of-pearl inlay reflects a decorative tradition long associated with East Asian craftsmanship. With its graceful floral design and shimmering shell accents, this box serves as both a useful storage piece and an attractive decorative object.
Details
Vintage black lacquer jewelry box
Hand-applied mother-of-pearl floral inlay
Hinged lid construction
Multi-compartment interior
Iridescent shell accents throughout
Decorative and functional design
Suitable for jewelry, keepsakes, or vanity storage
Specifications
Material: Lacquered Wood, Mother-of-Pearl
Decoration: Floral Inlay
Style: Jewelry / Keepsake Box
Origin: East Asian, likely Japanese
Circa: Mid-20th Century
Dimensions:
Hardwood compartments overall dimensions: Approximately 2.75"(w) x 3.50"(h) x 1.50"(d)
Compartment heights from top to bottom: Approximately .75"(h), 1.5"(h), 1.25"(h)
Overall Length : Approximately length of blue cord: 15"
Condition:
Overall: Very Good Vintage Condition
Hardwood Compartments: Light wear is consistent with age and use
Please see photos for details
Collector's Notes
Mother-of-pearl inlay has long been prized for its ability to capture and reflect light, creating a constantly changing display of color and iridescence. The careful placement of the shell elements and the contrast between the luminous inlay and glossy black lacquer make this box an especially appealing example of traditional decorative craftsmanship.
- Condition = Hardwood, Mother of Pearl
- Art Medium = Hardwood
- Material = Mother of Pearl
- Color = Multicolor
Item ID: 109402
Category: Decorative Arts
Note: This item has been inspected and appraised by a GIA Graduate Gemologist NAJA Appraiser.
Diamond origin is tested using a GIA iD100 Gem Testing Device. Unless indicated otherwise, all diamonds are to be considered natural, earth-mined diamonds. All man-made, laboratory-grown, laboratory-created, or synthetic diamonds are well marked on the price tag as well as in the website description.
All diamond and gemstone grading is done under GIA standards as the mounting permits. All gemstone weights and measurements are approximate. Unless otherwise stated, colored gemstones may have commonly used clarity and color enhancing treatments per industry standards.
Prospective buyers should note that all jewelry we sell is 'used' and will likely have some amount of wear, we warranty that the item will be essentially as we have described it, but no other warranties are expressed or implied, and all items are sold 'as is'.