A Japanese export lacquer ash receptacle, late 17th/early 18th Century.

Decorated with pavilions in landscapes in flat makie, using fine gold, silver and aokin on a black lacquer ground. 8.5cm x 6.8cm.

Although the container, due to its gilt copper lining, has traditionally been described as a receptacle, it may also have been used as an incense burner, forming part of a set of incense shelves.

Indeed, recent research suggests that when this piece entered the Burghley Collection, it was associated with the incense shelf JWA 09080 which features a similar design and appears in both the 1835 and 1867 Burghley Inventories.

REFERENCE: JWA09021

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