Japanese Set of 4 Boxes

Four boxes, one stack, and a field of gold branches.

Japanese craftsmen made this set of four boxes in wood in the early 20th century. Stacking boxes of this form are commonly associated with tiered food boxes, and they are often decorated in lacquer. The set fits together into a single block with a thin lid on top. Each tier is dark, glossy brown and painted in gold with sprays of leaves and slender branches that run across the front. The gold is slightly rubbed, which suits the depth of the lacquer.

About 14 inches tall and 10 deep. Stacked or spread out, it settles any table.