Japanese Lacquered Lidded Fumibako Box 

This is a Japanese lacquered wooden letter box (fumibako).  It is traditionally used to store letters, small books, important documents, paper, and other stationery items.
It is also often used for storing Buddhist items such as altar prayer books, prayer beads, charms, and incense. This type is called gobunshobako.
This elegant, glossy black lacquer piece is a beautiful decorative and functional addition to any home or office space. It features a gold floral makie motif with vines and leaves. The center of the flower is made with raden (a thin slice of abalone nacre). 

• Black, gold, red
• Wood
• C1970
• Item weight: 671 grams
• Packed weight: 1171 grams
• Approx. [Inside] 26.8 cm long x 22.3 cm wide x 4.4 cm deep; [Outside] 28 cm long x 23.5 cm wide x 5.8 cm tall
• Good condition considering its age. Spot like lacquer wears. Lacquer chipped on the inside corners. Wear and tear due to age. Please see the photos.
• Acquired from a friend’s home in Gifu, Japan