Japanese Lacquered Sake Drinking Set Meiji Period - Set of 4

Description

A Japanese lacquered Sake Drinking set circa late 19th century (end of Meiji period), The assemble consists of a red … more A Japanese lacquered Sake Drinking set circa late 19th century (end of Meiji period), The assemble consists of a red lacquer stand open frame support and a lid that encloses a storage space with black lacquered interior. The lid features a and a cup holder in the center and four heart shape cutouts on the corners. There are three maki-e decorated sake cups with gradual sizes. The cups showcase on the red background elaborate gold hiramaki-e paintings of the theme of "Three Friends in Winter". A subject matter that was favorite for the literati to render pine, plum blossom and bamboo together. The three plants were admired throughout Chinese and Japanese history for their evergreen and cold-resisting character. The painterly composition differs on each saucer.
The stand measures approximately 8.5" x 7" x 7". The sake cups measure 4", 3.75" and 3.5" in diameter respectively. less