Japan, Meiji Period Cabinet, lacquered wood and gilt bronze

Japan, Meiji Period (1868-1912) Cabinet. Lacquered wood with gold details and gilt bronze decorations, H 58 x W 70 x D 43.5 cm. With table H 143 x W 75 x D 48. This splendid Japanese cabinet dates back to the Meiji period and represents a magnificent example of the refined art of Japanese lacquerware. The furniture is entirely covered in black lacquer with gold decorations, depicting stylized natural landscapes with trees, hills and architectural motifs typical of oriental aesthetics. The finely crafted gilt bronze applications further embellish the structure, adding a touch of elegance and prestige. The hinges and locks are also finely chiseled. The interior is made up of several drawers of different sizes, decorated with the same gold and black lacquer finishes, with landscape and floral details. The cabinet is offered on a table base, with tapered legs and a single drawer with gilt bronze handle. The cabinet is an example of the refined Japanese aesthetic of the Meiji period, an era in which local craftsmanship began to blend elements of tradition with Western influences, to meet the growing international demand for Japanese art objects. The black lacquer with golden decorations recalls the maki-e technique, while the worked bronze hinges highlight the attention to detail and the excellence of Japanese cabinet making. The furniture is in excellent general condition, with slight signs of wear consistent with the period. The decorations are well preserved and the gilt bronze details retain their original luster.