A vintage Japanese shell-form kogo inspired by kai-awase, the traditional Japanese shell-matching game.
When closed, the piece has the quiet appearance of a natural white clam shell. Opening it reveals a striking deep red interior decorated in gold with traditional Japanese motifs: a crane on one half and pine on the other.
The contrast between the restrained exterior and richly decorated interior gives the piece a particularly beautiful sense of discovery.
The original storage box is inscribed with the name Zensen (善仙) and dated Showa 64 (1989).
Kai-awase has a long history in Japan, originating as an aristocratic shell-matching game in which pairs of clam shells were decorated and matched. Shell imagery later became associated with auspicious symbolism and traditional Japanese decorative arts.
The piece may be appreciated in its original context as a tea ceremony object, or simply displayed open as a small decorative object revealing the red and gold interior.
DIMENSIONS
Approx. 8 cm / 3.15 in wide
Approx. 6 cm / 2.36 in long
DATE
Showa 64 / 1989
CONDITION
Excellent vintage condition with no noticeable damage or significant signs of use.
Please refer to the photographs for details.
Includes its original storage box.
A beautiful Japanese object whose simple shell exterior conceals an unexpectedly vivid interior of red and gold.
