Japanese Round Lidded Box with Carved Floral and Leaf Decoration

Carved lacquer, red as a lantern.

Japanese craftsmen made this round lidded box in carved lacquer in the late 19th century. Carved red lacquer boxes are commonly used to hold small objects and as decorative pieces. The lid is cut deeply into overlapping petals and leaves, in a bold floral design, and the carving continues down the sides. The lacquer is a rich cinnabar red, darker in the recesses, with slightly worn edges.

About 4 inches tall and 8 across. A small box with a great deal of texture.