Black & Red Japanese Guri Tixi Lacquer Incense Box

Probably early 20th century Japanese small round wood Incense or Paste Box with lid covered in Black and Red Guri (Tixi) Lacquerwork. This 3" diameter box has a raised bottom and loose fitting lid. The Ruyi - cloud pattern, scroll-like - carvings in the lacquer are exquisite with deep "V" cuts clearly showing the many red and black layers of lacquer that cover the top and side surfaces of the piece. The box emanates the distinctive smell of agarwood, from which the box is made. These kinds of boxes were originally a part of the traditional tea ceremony, but were also used to hold incense for other rituals. This box was an estate find in Switzerland that had been stored for many years and was likely bought as a souvenir or received as a gift. Unmarked. In very good condition, with dust on the top, small scratches, and scuffing on the bottom, slight red showing through on the edges of the lid and bottom - see photos for details. A handsome box and lovely example of (tixi) guri lacquerwork that enhances any vignette. Use this as a decorative piece or to store special personal items.
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