Hattori Shosai Chinkin Red-and-White Plum Suzuribako, Echizen Lacquer

A black lacquered writing box (suzuribako) with red and white plum blossoms in chinkin, made by the certified traditional craftsman Hattori Shosai.

Chinkin is a lacquer technique in which the design is engraved into the cured urushi surface with a fine chisel, and gold is then pressed into the incised lines so the pattern glows against the black ground. Red and white plum, flowering in late winter, symbolise renewal and good fortune. Made in the Echizen lacquer tradition of Fukui, its wooden body is coated by hand. A suzuribako traditionally holds inkstone and brushes, and also makes a fine box for pens.

Details

• Craftsman: Hattori Shosai (服部正斎), certified traditional craftsman (dentō kōgeishi)
• Technique: chinkin (gold-inlaid engraving) on black urushi
• Materials: wood, hand-applied urushi
• Size: approx. 13.8 × 25.2 × 4.4 cm
• Box: not specified by the dealer
• Condition: new; slight colour variation possible; dealer lead time 1–3 weeks if not in stock

Watch: chinkin on Echizen lacquer

A demonstration of the chinkin technique, setting gold into lines engraved in lacquer, from the Echizen Lacquerware Cooperative. (A general craft video — not this piece or maker.)

Please read before ordering

• Limited availability. We confirm availability with the dealer in Japan within one business day of your order; if it has sold we refund in full immediately.
• Ships from New Jersey in 2–3 weeks. Price includes all import duties. Fully insured, signature required.
• Urushi lacquer is durable but dislikes direct sun and very dry air; care notes are included.