Vintage Japanese Black Lacquer Vase with Gold Maki-e Floral Band, Mid-Showa 1946-1965 | SKU: 26M-146

Vintage Japanese Black Lacquer Vase with Gold Maki-e Floral Band, Mid-Showa 1946-1965 | SKU: 26M-146

A boldly sculptural shikki lacquerware vase adorned with a luminous gold maki-e floral band -- pure mid-century Japanese craft.

A shikki vase is a traditional Japanese vessel finished in urushi-style lacquer, prized for its deep, mirror-like gloss and the meticulous decorative techniques applied to its surface. This tall, faceted example -- turned from a wooden core and coated in jet-black lacquer -- showcases the refined craft of mid-Showa artisans who blended centuries-old lacquerware tradition with a modern sense of geometric form. The body tapers gracefully toward a narrow square mouth and a flat base, with softly chamfered edges giving it an almost architectural presence. Encircling the widest point of the form is a continuous band of finely rendered gold decoration: densely overlapping chrysanthemum-like florets composed of delicate feathered petals, applied with a precision that recalls the maki-e (gold-powder lacquer) technique. The contrast between the glossy black ground and warm gold ornament is quintessentially Japanese -- restrained yet opulent -- and represents a high point of vintage Japanese craft from the postwar revival period.

In a modern home, this striking lacquer vase works beautifully as a living room accent piece displayed on a mantel, console table, or bookshelf, where its tall silhouette and bold black-and-gold palette command attention without overwhelming. Slip a single stem of dried pampas grass or a branch of preserved foliage inside to elevate it into a sophisticated floral display -- perfectly suited to a Japandi style or wabi-sabi aesthetic interior. It also makes a memorable gift for collectors of Japanese vintage decorative arts or as a unique housewarming gift for anyone who appreciates handcrafted Japanese lacquerware.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1946-1965 (Mid Showa)
• Material: Wooden core with black lacquer finish; gold-decorated band, likely applied in a maki-e or printed gold technique
• Use: Decorative flower vase; ikebana display vessel
• Modern Use: Living room accent or mantel display piece; dried-flower or branch arrangement; unique gift for collectors of Japanese lacquerware
• Features: Tall faceted body with chamfered edges; deep mirror-black lacquer finish; continuous gold floral band featuring densely layered feathered florets; narrow square opening; flat stable base
• Dimensions: 3"W x 3"D x 11"H
• Condition: Good vintage condition; minor surface scuffs and light wear to the lacquer consistent with age; gold decoration intact and vivid

A stunning piece of vintage Japanese lacquerware that brings timeless black-and-gold elegance to any modern interior.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.