A beautifully preserved vintage Japanese lidded sweet container crafted in the tradition of Akita Kabazaiku cherry bark work.
Originally created as a kashi-ki, a vessel for presenting Japanese sweets, this piece is particularly striking for the geometric composition of its lid.
Four sections of richly patterned cherry bark meet at the center, with the natural markings of the bark arranged in different directions. The result is an almost abstract composition of dark brown, reddish-brown, and pale natural lines.
Set against the deep dark body of the vessel, the cherry bark lid gives the piece a remarkably graphic and contemporary presence.
KABAZAIKU — JAPANESE CHERRY BARK CRAFT
Kabazaiku is a traditional Japanese craft particularly associated with Akita Prefecture.
The craft makes use of the bark of wild cherry trees, valued for its rich coloration, natural luster, and highly individual surface patterns.
Because the bark retains variations created by nature, no two areas are exactly alike.
In this piece, those variations become an important part of the design.
GEOMETRIC CHERRY BARK LID
The lid is divided visually into four sections, each displaying the natural cherry bark in a different orientation.
The changing direction of the bark creates a strong geometric composition while preserving the organic character of the material.
A small central knob completes the restrained design.
KASHI-KI — JAPANESE SWEET CONTAINER
This type of lidded vessel is traditionally used for presenting Japanese sweets during tea or when receiving guests.
Today it can continue to be used as a serving vessel, or repurposed as a decorative storage box for small objects.
Its strong material and graphic qualities also allow it to be appreciated simply as a Japanese craft object.
SIZE
Diameter: approx. 18.5 cm / 7.28 in
Height excluding lid handle: approx. 7.5 cm / 2.95 in
Material: Cherry bark, wood-based structure
Craft: Kabazaiku / Japanese cherry bark craft
Type: Kashi-ki / lidded sweet container
Origin: Akita Prefecture, Japan
Period: Vintage
CONDITION
Excellent vintage condition.
This piece is an unused item 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 cherry bark, including differences in grain, markings, texture, and coloration, are inherent characteristics of the material and are not considered defects.
This is a one-of-a-kind vintage piece. The photographs show the actual item you will receive.
