MATSUKI HOKEI: A SUPERB TSUISHU LACQUER KISERUZUTSU WITH MYTHICAL BEASTSBy Matsuki Hokei, signed Hokei 豊慶Japan, Tokyo, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)Of muso-zutsu form, masterfully worked in tsuishu (carved red lacquer), the surface beautifully polished and highlighted with yellow and black accents to simulate wear, decorated to one side with a winged dragon ascending towards a descending sparrow, surrounded by reishi clouds, opulent flowers and scrolling vines. The verso continuing the imagery and featuring a ho-o (phoenix) and dragonfly. The relief decoration is carved above a fine asanoha ground. The inset piece carved with lotus butterflies. With a gilt metal fitting forming the cord attachment.LENGTH 21.3 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear, some nibbling to edges. The gilt metal cord attachment probably a replacement.Matsuki Hokei was a lacquerer who worked in Tokyo in the early Meiji era and is widely recognized for his superb craftsmanship in tsuishu lacquer. Hokei was a professor at the Tokyo Academy of Fine Arts.Auction comparison:For another pipe case by Hokei see Bonhams, The Edward Wrangham Collection of Japanese Art Part IV, 6 November 2013, London, lot 101 (sold for GBP 5,250).