253. A RARE GOLD AND BLACK LACQUER 'TANSU' CABINET.

A RARE GOLD AND BLACK LACQUER 'TANSU' CABINET, of rectangular form, with two hinged doors opening to reveal an arrangement of eight small drawers, above a larger drawer, the exterior decorated with cranes in flight amongst pine trees, bamboo and waterfalls with crashing waves, the interior of the doors are depicting phoenix birds with swirling tail-feathers, the small drawers embellished with one or two cranes each, Edo period, 19th century, c. 110 x 96 cm, c. 60 cm deep.

PROVENANCE:
Earlier in the collection of a japanese family since 1870. Then acquired by the present owner c. 2010.

NOTE:
Pines and cranes often occur in Japanese art as symbols of longevity.