A RARE LACQUER KYOSOKU (ARMREST) Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) The kyosoku embellished in gold and silver takamaki-e and hiramaki-e with details of nashiji and kirigane all against a lustrous roiro ground, depicting a pair of ho-o birds in flight amid a blossoming branch of paulownia (kiri), five Tosa Kashiwa mon scattered across the top and lobed feet, the reverse decorated in mura-nashiji. SIZE 64.5 x 21.8 cm Condition: Very good condition, minor wear, few light surface scratches, and minuscule nicks. Provenance: British trade. The Tosa Kashiwa mon was especially used by the Tosa Yamauchi clan, which ruled over what was then the Tosa Province that spanned the southern half of Shikoku Island. Both the ho-o bird and the paulownia (kiri) tree are imperial symbols of Japan. According to legend, the ho-o, a bird similar to the phoenix that represents the eternal rebirth of the soul, only settles on the Kiri tree. In the hope of attracting this auspicious bird that blesses people with wisdom, health and happiness, the trees are planted in courtyards and gardens.