The decoration imitates branches of pine and plum blossom placed on the fan and trailing over the sides of the container, using gold, silver and aokin thinly raised gold makie and finely cut gold foil, on a gold ground.
The tassel is charmingly highlighted in red lacquer, 11.4cm by 8.9cm by 2.5cm.
The 1835 Burghley Inventory records: ‘Japan Closet, Japan in the Glass case opposite the door(s), sic G. J. 2 Boxes Fan shaped.’ (See JWA 09052).
The 1867 Burghley Inventory records: ‘Cabinets, No 88 Japan Closet, 2 gold japan fan shaped boxes.’ (See JWA09052).
Exhibited: ‘Export Lacquer: Reflection of the West in Black & Gold Makie.’ 2008, Kyoto Museum & Suntory Museum, Tokyo, Cat. No.215.
