Daimyo Bridal Cosmetic Set 松竹梅蒔絵 大名化粧道具 with Wooden Boxes - Lacquered wood - Japan - 19th - 20th Century

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【Product details】

Presenting a rare and highly valuable bridal cosmetic set presumably from the 19th - 20th Century, adorned with intricate gold maki-e designs of pine, bamboo, and plum on black lacquered wood. Each piece in this exquisite collection features matching motifs of these auspicious symbols, known collectively as Sho Chiku Bai in Japanese culture. The pine symbolizes longevity and steadfastness, the bamboo represents resilience and flexibility, and the plum blossom signifies renewal and perseverance in the face of adversity. Together, they are traditional emblems of good fortune and are often used in celebratory contexts, making this set not only a work of art but also a bearer of positive symbolism.

The included copper mirror features the "Maruni Tate Mitsuiki Ryōmon 丸に竪三つ引き両紋," the family crest most commonly used by the Date clan, which was also used by Date Masamune. Date Masamune 伊達政宗 was a renowned feudal lord known for his military prowess and for founding the city of Sendai.

The comprehensive collection includes a six-piece Ohaguro (tooth blackening) set featuring a maki-e ear wash basin, daiwa (pedestal cylinder), and four repoussé brass items—a tray, two bowls, and a flask. Accompanying these are a maki-e hand towel rack, an antique copper mirror with a gold maki-e stand and its original storage box, and a wooden mirror stand. The set also contains a bucket with a strainer and strainer stand, showcasing meticulous craftsmanship, as well as a middle tray and a tanzaku (poem card) box with an attached cord.

Further enriching this collection is a comb stand essential for traditional bridal grooming rituals, and a three-drawer chest with a tray top. Inside the chest are a lidded small box, an oval container, and a rectangular box with internal dividers. Completing the set is a combination of a ceremonial stand and a lidded teacup, adding to its ceremonial significance.

Please note that due to its age, the set exhibits minor wear such as scuffs, small scratches, lacquer chips, cracks, and some discoloration. The rim of the ear wash basin in the Ohaguro set has been repainted. We encourage you to examine the photos carefully to assess the condition of these historical pieces.

Dimensions of Bucket: approx. H 19 cm W 50 cm D 50 cm
Dimensions of Hand Towel Rack: approx. H 48.4 cm W 68.6 cm D 23.5 cm
Dimensions of Three-drawer Chest: approx. H 33.9 cm W 33 cm D 23.9 cm
Dimensions of Mirror Stand: approx. H 57 cm W 25.5 cm D 31 cm

・Please make sure to review all the provided information and images before placing your bid.
・We make every effort to accurately represent the product's colors and textures in our photos. However, due to differences in monitors and device displays, as well as photographic conditions, slight color variations between the photos and the actual product may occur. We ask for your understanding in advance.

Thank you for your interest, and happy bidding!