Lacquer box decorated with a heron

This box was the first diplomatic gift between Japan and Britain after the Second World War, indicating a new era of friendship. Imperial Household Artist, Shirayama Shōsai, has depicted a heron with remarkable boldness and delicacy, using miniscule streaks of gold to accent the soft silver feathers. The bird contrasts dramatically with the black ground, which has been polished to a mirror-like finish.