A Nashi-ji two-tiered box and deep cover Early 20th century

the cover richly decorated in gold and iro-e hiramakie, takamaki-e and kimpun with large chrysanthemum flowers and leaves with a sprays of plum blossoms, the sides with chrysanthemums, peony, camellia and nandina, the sides of the tiered boxes with the same design, the rims in shakudo mounts and shakudo ring handles of pierced chrysanthemum-form, containing an interior tray decorated with a bouquet of lotus flowers and pads, peony and cape jasmine, with reeds, all on a nashi-ji ground, the reverse of the tray signed nanaju-ni o (at an old age of 72) Funabashi Shumin and a red pot seal

Christie's London, 4th July 1984, lot 383.

The four corners of the tray have lost lacquer. The largest loss is about 1in on lower left (see catalogue illustration).
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Funabashi Shumin studied the lacquer tradition with Uematsu Homin and was one of the three students, together with Yasui Hochu and Matsuda Homin, who excelled in the craft. Ten plates decorated by ten Nihon urushi kokaisho members, including Shumin, Shibata Reisai and Shirayama Shosai are illustrated in Kindai Nihon no urushi kogei, Moa Museum of Art, Atami, 1983, no. 58, p. 47.