Japanese Lacquerware - A Masterclass in Technique and Beauty
Malcolm Fairley presents a collection of Japanese lacquerware that exemplifies the elegance, precision and artistry of Japan’s most revered decorative traditions. These rare works, primarily from the Meiji period (1868–1912), are celebrated for their intricate surface treatments, subtle use of gold and silver and their ability to evoke nature in form and spirit.
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A lacquer cosmetic box (tebako), worked in gold taka-maki-e with a dramatic view of a waterfall over rocks
Meiji Period, circa 1900
SOLD Hoin Masataka
A lacquer and ivory okimono depicting an elephant
Yuasa Kagyo
A Gold-Lacquer and Inlaid Hira-Natsume (Squat Tea caddy) depicting an autumnal night scene in contrasting gold takamaki-e and gold togidashi maki-e
Late Meiji period, circa 1910
SOLD A gold lacquer suzuribako (writing box) finely worked in gold inlay with three karako one holding a doll, another a tambourine and the other a drum, on a gold lacquer ground
Meiji period, circa 1890
A Legacy of Artistic Excellence
Japanese lacquerware has long been admired for its delicate yet durable finish, created through the laborious application of urushi (sap) over wood, often enhanced with maki-e, raden (mother-of-pearl inlay) and intricate gilt decoration. These pieces, crafted by master artisans, served not just as practical objects but as symbols of refinement and taste.
Meiji Period Innovations in Japanese Lacquerware
The Meiji period was a time of extraordinary innovation in Japanese lacquerware, with artists blending traditional aesthetics with new materials and techniques for global exhibitions. The lacquer pieces in our collection reflect this golden age of creativity, often made for international expositions where they gained admiration from collectors and connoisseurs worldwide.
A Collector’s Guide to Japanese Lacquerware
Each work of Japanese lacquerware offered by Malcolm Fairley has been selected for its superior craftsmanship, aesthetic beauty and historical importance. From elegant writing boxes (suzuribako) to decorative panels and trays, these artworks showcase technical brilliance and subtle symbolism that elevate them beyond utility to the realm of fine art.
Why Collect Japanese Lacquerware?
To collect Japanese lacquerware is to preserve a form of art that demands mastery, patience, and deep cultural knowledge. It holds timeless appeal among collectors for its richness of surface, narrative beauty and its role in preserving Japan’s visual and material history. Our gallery offers authentic pieces with full provenance, ensuring both artistic and historical value.
Visit Our Central London Gallery
Situated in the heart of St. James’s, viewings can be arranged by appointment for those seeking to explore these exceptional Meiji period treasures in person.