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KOGEDO

Japanese black lacquer box – Flock of cranes 鶴 Tsuru in maki-e and nashiji

Japanese black lacquer box – Flock of cranes 鶴 Tsuru in maki-e and nashiji

Regular price 90 EUR
Regular price Sale price 90 EUR
Sale Sold out
Taxes included. Shipping calculated at checkout.

Unique piece — only one available.

  • Free delivery to relay point
  • 14 day guarantee
  • 100% secure payment

    📐Characteristics

    • Origin: Japan, unearthed in Kanagawa Prefecture.
    • Estimated Period: Heisei Era (1990s–2000s)
    • Material: Light wood, glossy black urushi lacquer finish
    • Decorative Techniques:
      • Maki-e (蒔絵) – gold powder application on wet lacquer for the large cranes
      • Nashiji (梨地) – very fine gold flakes for the small cranes in the background
    • Decor: Two large golden cranes and a flight of stylized small cranes
    • Dimensions: L ~24cm; W ~18cm; H ~2.5cm
    • Weight: 400g
    • Condition: Very good vintage condition – a few discreet, almost imperceptible signs of wear, glossy and uniform surface, impeccable interior

    📮 Description

    This Japanese black lacquer wooden box was made for NTT (Nippon Telegraph and Telephone), one of Japan's largest telecommunications companies. Intended to accompany the sending of formal telegrams — for weddings, congratulations, condolences, or other important moments — it embodies a Japanese tradition where the written message is transmitted with solemnity and beauty.

    The decoration is executed using two major techniques of Japanese lacquerware:

    • The maki-e (蒔絵), which adorns the two large cranes here: this method consists of sprinkling gold powder onto still-wet lacquer to create a brilliant and precise design. This refinement can be seen in the detailed feathers and golden nuances of the plumage.
    • The nashiji (梨地), literally "pear skin," is manifested in the flight of small stylized cranes. This technique creates a diffuse shimmering effect using tiny gold particles scattered in the lacquer.

    In Japanese symbolism, the crane (鶴 tsuru) is associated with longevity, fidelity, and peace. It is often depicted in pairs, embodying an unbreakable and happy bond.

    This box can now hold your own memories: letters, cards, jewelry, or small personal treasures. Or simply be admired for what it is!

    🦝 We love

    We love the marriage of maki-e and nashiji, the two emblematic techniques of Japanese lacquerware.
    We also love its old-school history from the NTT telecom company. It makes you want to send letters!

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    By purchasing from Kogedo, you are helping to keep traditional Japanese crafts and culture alive.

    Collapsible content

    Kogechan, la mascotte tanuki de KOGEDO, en tenue traditionnelle japonaise violette, souriant et levant la patte pour accompagner la mini FAQ sur les produits artisanaux japonais.

    📦 Is delivery really free?

    Yes! It is offered and tracked at a Mondial Relay pick-up point (or delivered to your home if your order is over €150). Each order is carefully protected, packaged and shipped from France.

    🎌 Are the items authentic?

    Absolutely. All pieces are sourced in Japan from local vendors, markets, or artisans. They are authentic vintage items or Japanese handicrafts, unique and steeped in history.

    ✨ It's a one-of-a-kind piece. What if someone buys it before I do?

    Unfortunately… there won’t be two of them! If you like a product, don’t wait too long. Once sold, it disappears from the shop. But sometimes some tableware may be available in multiple copies!

    🔁 Can I return an item if I change my mind?

    Yes, you have 14 days after receipt to contact us. We will always find a benevolent solution if an item does not suit you.

    🔐 Is the payment secure?

    Of course. The site is fully secured via Shopify (credit card, Visa, Mastercard, ApplePay, Paypal, Klarna, iDEAL and Bancontact) and your payments are protected.

    💳 Do you offer installment payments?

    Yes. For orders starting from €250, you can pay in 3 interest-free installments via Klarna.

    It is also possible to pay in 4 interest-free installments via PayPal, depending on your PayPal account's eligibility.

    This option is automatically offered at checkout if your order is eligible.