Japanese Vintage Hida Shunkei Ajiro Yae Lidded Box

A beautifully preserved vintage Hida Shunkei lacquerware piece from Takayama, Gifu Prefecture, Japan.

This distinctive piece combines the warm, translucent character of traditional Shunkei lacquer with an intricate woven design identified as “Ajiro Yae” (網代八重).

Its octagonal silhouette, low layered form, and richly patterned lid create a remarkably geometric composition.

Although rooted in traditional Japanese craftsmanship, the restrained form and repeating woven pattern give the piece a distinctly contemporary presence.

HIDA SHUNKEI — TRADITIONAL LACQUERWARE FROM TAKAYAMA

Hida Shunkei is a traditional Japanese lacquerware craft associated with the Hida-Takayama region of Gifu Prefecture.

Shunkei lacquerware is particularly admired for its warm amber and reddish tones and for a finish that emphasizes the natural character of the material beneath rather than concealing it beneath heavy decoration.

This piece displays a beautiful warm orange-brown tone that changes subtly depending on the light.

AJIRO YAE — 網代八重

This piece is identified as “Ajiro Yae” (網代八重), referring to the distinctive woven design used across the lid.

The tightly repeated diagonal elements create a richly layered geometric pattern, giving the surface remarkable depth and rhythm.

Combined with the octagonal outline and warm Shunkei lacquer, the woven lid becomes the visual centerpiece of the piece.

Viewed directly from above, the repeated pattern has an almost textile-like or architectural quality.

OCTAGONAL FORM

The vessel is constructed in an elegant eight-sided form.

Its low, layered profile creates a strong horizontal silhouette, while the defined edges emphasize its geometric construction.

The contrast between the intricately patterned lid and the restrained interior gives the piece a particularly refined visual balance.

USE & DISPLAY

Originally created as a functional Japanese craft object, this piece can be used for presenting or storing sweets, tea-related items, accessories, jewelry, small textiles, or other collected objects.

It can also be appreciated simply as a decorative Japanese lacquerware object.

Its strong geometry, warm lacquer tone, and woven surface make it particularly suitable for contemporary interiors alongside ceramics, wood, bamboo, and other natural materials.

SIZE

Approx. 16.5 cm / 6.50 in across

Height without lid:
Approx. 4.8 cm / 1.89 in

Craft: Hida Shunkei lacquerware
Design: Ajiro Yae (網代八重)
Origin: Hida-Takayama, Gifu Prefecture, Japan
Period: Vintage

CONDITION

Excellent vintage condition.

This is an unused piece that has been preserved in long-term storage.

It remains in remarkably beautiful condition with no noticeable major damage.

Very minor signs associated with age or long-term storage may be present. Please refer carefully to the photographs for the exact condition.

Natural variations in the woven surface, lacquer tone, texture, and handcrafted construction are inherent characteristics of traditional craftsmanship and are not considered defects.

This is a one-of-a-kind vintage piece. The photographs show the actual item you will receive.