Japanese Antique Shibayama Black Lacquered Wall Panel Inlaid With Mother of Pearl & Ivory Kingfisher Butterfly Iris & Grasses Meiji Period circa 1880

A large Japanese Meiji period Shibayama rectangular black lacquered wooden wall panel or plaque circa 1880. The highly decorative panel is inlaid in high relief with carved, shaped and engraved ivory and mother of pearl shell against the black lacquer background with a design of Irises, grasses, a Kingfisher and a butterfly. The main iris flower and the kingfisher bird are exceptionally well carved, it is beautifully observed and executed piece of work. There is a square shaped inlay red seal mark for the maker which we have currently been unable to identify.

It has an old retailers paper label to the rear that appears to translate as talented. We have no doubt that the person making this panel was extremely talented.

This very attractive and decorative late 19th century lacquer wall plaque or panel has two pieces of wood across the back of the wooden board in order to stiffen it. The top piece has two ring suspension eyes and cord attached to hang on the wall.

We think that it dates from the Meiji ( 明治 ) period (1868 to 1912).

The plaque is in very good antique condition. There are some minor knocks and losses to the lacquer on edges of the panels. It may not have spent all it's time on a wall and have been treasured as it should be. Minor marking commensurate with it's age. Some of the black lacquer on the back of the panel has flaked off. There are no losses to the mother of pearl and ivory inlay. Please see the images.

The plaque is approximately 17 3/4 inches (45 cm) high, 11 5/16 inches (28.7 cm) wide and 1 1/8 inches ( 2.9 cm) deep and weighs 1.178 Kg unpacked.

A great 19th century Meiji Shibayama panel and a very decorative and highly collectable antique item. Free UK postage with this item.

This item is registered with the UK Government APHA as exempt from regulations under the deminimis and age rules.

Prospective purchasers are advised that several countries prohibit the importation of property containing materials from endangered species, including but not limited to coral, ivory and tortoiseshell. Accordingly, prospective purchasers should familiarize themselves with relevant customs regulations prior to bidding if they intend to import this item into another country.