FINE JAPANESE LACQUERED COVERED BOWL

Second half of the 19th century. Particularly auspicious themed and made for weddings, though perhaps used for the birthday of an elderly person as well. Translucent body color in glossy reddish brown, mottled to simulate wear and thus express humility. The top is decorated with a mountain scene with trees and two cranes flying over a nest of three baby cranes. The inside of the top with the two cranes in flight. All executed in shades of gold, produced with pure gold dust, and the figures are built up in low relief for depth and texture. Small flaws to the edges of the bowl and top as typical. Decoration skillfully applied and in fine preservation.