MORIYA SHOTEI: A FINE LACQUERED SUZURIBAKO By Moriya Shotei (1890-1972) Japan, dated Showa 9 (1934), Showa period (1926-1989) A fine lacquer suzuribako (writing box) decorated on the sides and lid with a cloudy silver lacquer ground, the center of the lid with a lobed reserve with a roiro-nuri ground featuring a stylized image of a bamboo branch in fine gold togidashi-e. The inside with dense nashiji clouds, roiro-nuri and gold togidashi-e maple leaves and wisteria. The inside of the lid is similarly decorated with various flowers including kiku (chrysanthemum) flowers. With the original ink stone and gilt brass suiteki (water dropper) showing a stylized floral mon resembling the chrysanthemum flower seal (imperial crest of Japan). With the original wood tomobako storage box, signed and dated by the artist. Moriwa Shotei (1890-1972) was a talented lacquerer who was born during a period defined by the revival of lacquer arts in the later Meiji period and was known for his modern style with traditional techniques, as well as his mastery and refinement. He apprenticed Shirayama Shosai (1853-1923) and exhibited consistently at the Buten, Teiten and Nitten National Exhibitions. SIZE 21.6 x 23.6 x 4.1 cm Condition: Excellent condition, extremely minor wear to lacquer. A split through the lid of the wood tomobako storage box. Provenance: French private collection. Auction comparison: The artist's work rarely comes up at auction, for another artwork see Christie's, Japanese and Korean Art, 23 March 1999, New York, lot 172 (sold for 10,925 USD).