What were oriental lacquered boxes used for?

These containers served varied practical purposes in domestic and commercial life, ranging from the storage of tea leaves and documents to the safekeeping of jewellery and textiles. Larger trunks and chests held garments and household goods, while smaller caddies and kodansu kept personal valuables secure. Many forms adapted to specific cultural requirements, such as dowry baskets for marriage ceremonies and writing boxes for correspondence. Their durable lacquer surfaces protected contents from humidity and insects during daily use or travel.

How do I care for an antique lacquered box?

Maintenance requires gentle handling and stable environmental conditions, keeping pieces away from direct sunlight, radiators, and rapid humidity shifts. Dusting should occur regularly with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth without employing chemical polishes or modern cleaning sprays. If the surface requires light cleaning, a barely damp cloth followed immediately by dry buffing is generally sufficient. Protecting the lacquer from sharp impacts prevents chipping in the hard resin finish.

How can I tell Japanese lacquer from Chinese export pieces?

Distinguishing between regional origins involves examining the decorative motifs, wood choices, and specific construction methods employed by the workshops. Japanese pieces frequently feature Meiji period aesthetics, such as fine gold hiramaki-e or distinct cabinet forms like the tansu and kodansu. Chinese export pieces often display rich black or red lacquer combined with bold gilt decoration depicting traditional figures, pavilions, and floral arrangements. Examining the underlying wood, such as camphor or elm, also provides clues regarding provenance.

What is a Chinese tea caddy?

A tea caddy is a specialised container designed to store dry tea leaves safely before brewing. Early examples often featured secure lidded compartments and fitted interiors to preserve the aroma and quality of valuable imported tea. These boxes frequently utilised lacquer, wood, or metal linings, reflecting the high status of tea consumption during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Their portable size made them suitable for tabletop use in reception rooms.

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Oriental Lacquered Box

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An oriental lacquered box brings rich texture and intricate detail to any room, offering both decorative presence and practical storage.

19th century

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Japanese Inro

From David Robinson Antiques

£450

3+ MONTHS AGO

miscellaneous

19th century

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Chinese Tea Caddy

From David Robinson Antiques

£250

3+ MONTHS AGO

boxes

19th century

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A Large 19th Century Japanese Lacquer Writing Box Circa 1880

From Robert Belcher Antiques

£1,650

3+ MONTHS AGO

boxes

Small Antique Sharing Box, Japanese, Lacquered, Meiji, Keepsake Case, Victorian

19th century

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Small Antique Sharing Box, Japanese, Lacquered, Meiji, Keepsake Case, Victorian

From London Fine Antiques

£495

3+ MONTHS AGO

boxes

19th century

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Japanese Tansu Chest

From Sinclairs Antiques and Interiors

£425

3+ MONTHS AGO

cupboards

Antique Japanese Black Lacquered Table Cabinet

19th century

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Antique Japanese Black Lacquered Table Cabinet

From Rebecca Sarah Antiques

£785

3+ MONTHS AGO

cupboards

1900 - 1920

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Early 20th C Kashmiri Lidded Pot

From William James Antiques

£480

3+ MONTHS AGO

ceramics

Mid C19th Chinese Export Qing Dynasty Lacquer Table Cabinet with Gilded Decoration .

19th century

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Mid C19th Chinese Export Qing Dynasty Lacquer Table Cabinet with Gilded Decoration .

From M Lees and Sons

£600

3+ MONTHS AGO

cabinets

19th century

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Japanese Kiri Wood Storage Cabinet

From Sinclairs Antiques and Interiors

£225

3+ MONTHS AGO

boxes

A Decorative Japanese Black Lacquer Kodansu Table Cabinet C.1920

1900 - 1920

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A Decorative Japanese Black Lacquer Kodansu Table Cabinet C.1920

From Gill Coe Antiques & Interiors

£175

3+ MONTHS AGO

cabinets

Listings feature items from the eighteenth, nineteenth, and early twentieth centuries, incorporating materials such as lacquer, brass, gold leaf, and camphor wood.