A work of quiet contemplation, focused on the melancholia of lengthening autumnal nights, where we see and ‘hear’ the almost invisible world that takes over as night falls. It is a work of demanding techniques.

Over a seido nuri ground that captures the quality of cast metal, is a delicate design of grasses in black on black, kuromaki-e, within which insects - grasshopper, crickets and bee – are depicted. The overall design is raised in high gloss black takamakie to create a night-time scene, on the borders of visibility, that causes viewers to hold their breath for fear of disturbing the transitory scene.

Opening the box reveals, on the underside of the lid and set against a perfect, high-gloss black roiro ground, the depiction of a bell cricket, symbol of early autumn and emblematic of martial virtues, with brilliant shell, raden, inlay wings. The box itself, has a contrasting inlaid board with seido nuro finish holding the plain black suzuri , support framing for brushes, and a silver suiteki  set in a golden halo representing the full moon that illuminates the scene.

The artist, Wakamiya Takashi, leads the Hikojyu Studio team of craftsmen in Wajima. Their work maintains the traditional skills associated with this most famous lacquer-making centre. Each is a master craftsperson skilled in the individual production stages of traditional lacquer ware. 

Wakamiya is a passionate ambassador for the continuation of lacquer skills, stating:

‘Essential values have been passed down through the generations to contemporary Japanese society by learning about lacquer wares. I consider it my duty and privilege to hand down our ancestors’ heart and wisdom to future generations through my works, and hopefully to revive our ancestors’ spirit in modern times.’