Urushi Lacquer Appraisal

Japanese Lacquerware Vase and Decorative Tray

The primary item is a black lacquerware vase, approximately 10-12 inches tall, featuring a vibrant, multi-colored hand-painted or lacquered design depicting what appears to be peacocks amidst lush floral arrangements, including peonies and chrysanthemums, in shades of gold, silver, pink, purple, blue, and green. The vase has a flared rim and two elongated, wing-like handles extending upwards from its shoulders, which are tied together with a thin red string, possibly for decorative or symbolic purposes. The base color of the vase is a rich, glossy black. Behind the vase is a black lacquerware decorative tray or plaque, with a scalloped edge and raised sides, also adorned with gold and colored motifs, including pagodas and clouds, suggesting a Japanese or East Asian origin. To the right of the black vase, there is a smaller, maroon-colored vase with silver-colored bird and floral designs. In front of the larger vase, resting on what appears to be a separate stand, is a decorative round object, possibly a Japanese hand fan or a component of a larger decorative piece. This round object is black and maroon with intricate gold floral patterns forming a concentric design around a central grid-like feature. The stand supporting this round object is black with curved legs. All items exhibit a high level of craftsmanship, typical of traditional Japanese decorative arts. The lacquer appears generally well-preserved, with a noticeable sheen, indicating good care or minimal wear. No significant damage like chips, cracks, or extensive loss of lacquer is immediately visible from the image, but closer inspection would be required to confirm the full condition. The style points towards an East Asian (likely Japanese) decorative art aesthetic, possibly from the mid to late 20th century.