Ryukyu Okinawa Lacquer Accessory Box Tebako With Fuji-Wisteria Flowers

The deep, octagonal wood box with rounded corners is decorated in Ryukyu Kingdom (Japanese Okinawa today), tsuikin lacquer technique, with designs of wisteria flowers (Fuji means wisteria) continuing to exterior of box. Interior of lid has an inscribed cartouche. The Ryukyu Kingdom enjoyed prosperous diplomatic and commercial relations with China, so local artisans imported Chinese lacquering techniques. During the 15th and 16th centuries, the Ryukyu king offered ornate lacquerware as gifts to China’s emperor and ambassadors. Ryukyu Kingdom was ruled as a tributary state of imperial Ming China by the Ryukyuan monarchy, who unified Okinawa Island.
Dimensions: 8 inch L x 6 inch W x 6.25 inch H.
Dates from between 1930s to 1940s.
Provenance: Okinawa (Japan) private family inheritance.
Very good condition, consistent with age. One small chip inside the edge but it gets covered by the lid (pictured).
Interested buyers are highly encouraged to ask all necessary questions before their purchase. Thank you.