In the form of an Indian elephant, topped with a seated figure of Guanyin holding a blessing whisk, which forms the lid of the ‘koro’ or box and cover. The elephant adorned with semi-precious jewels and silver attachments, draped over its back is a skirt with a phoenix medallion on each side, made from cloissone-enamel on a gold and silver diaper background. In the style of Shippo and Somada ‘Aogai’ inlay works.
• Similar high quality Shibayama Inlay are in the Nasser D. Khalili Collection, Meiji (no) takara, Treasures of Imperial Japan, Lacquer part II, illustrated, nos.184 and 185.
Ivory Registration Ref: DCWUBREZ
