Japanese, Japan

These nested boxes are decorated with plum, bamboo, and pine, known as the Three Friends of Winter. As hardy plants that don’t wither despite the harshness of winter, the three symbolize perseverance and resilience—values prized in Confucianism. Also common to lacquerware motifs are scattered fans that depict vignettes, floral designs, and auspicious animals. The fans on the box at left shimmer with brilliance, floating above a rich black ground.

In the Japanese lacquer technique maki-e (sprinkled pictures), gold and silver flecks are applied to damp lacquer. The process of applying, drying, and polishing layers of lacquer is then repeated to seal in the designs, which can be flat or raised.