Box for writing paper

This lacquered writing-paper box is decorated with a motif of flying birds confined behind a net, or in an aviary. On its side, a cloisonné fitting with a ring originally held silk cords for tying the box together.

This box exemplifies three basic Japanese lacquer decoration techniques: hira (flat) makie, taka (raised) makie, and kirikane (cut sheet of metal). In the makie process, silver or gold powders (or flakes) are sprinkled on the painted lacquer pattern while it is still wet and acts as an adhering agent. When the decoration is raised to some thickness with repeated applications of lacquer and gold, the finished work is called taka (raised) makie. Kirikane, small pieces of silver, are arranged on the makie surface as additional decorative elements.