A Finely lacquered writing implements box and cover (suzuribako) 19th century

of rounded rectangular form, elaborately decorated with gold hiramaki-e, takamaki-e, kirigane, shell and mother-of-pearl inlays depicting a fully displayed Kujaku (peacock) Myõ-õ, the bird's feathers inlaid with shells and the lotus seeds in the pod with mother-of-pearl on a nashi-ji ground, the interior decorated in gold hiramaki-e, gold and silver kirigane, kanegai, nashi-ji, kimpun with a lotus blossom borne on clouds surmounted by the sei (life) character, the right side with scattered lotus petals representing the actual world with characters of kono inochi owari (this life ending), the left side representing paradise (anraku no yo), the interior of the box with a continuous paradise scene in Hokke-Kyo style, fitted with stands for brushes, a silver water dropper in the form of two handscrolls and an ink stone

Spink and Son, London.

There is a very tiny chip (approx 1 x 2 mm) on upper edge (right top) of the riser part of the box.
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.