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JAPAN
Mounted bowl and cover
lacquer: 1680-1720, mounts: 1740-1860Wood decorated in black and gold lacquer, mounted in gilt bronze | 29.8 x 38.7 x 31.4 cm (whole object) | RCIN 3152
Originally a rice bowl, this magnificent lacquer vessel is decorated with stylised chrysanthemums. The plant was first used in Japan for medicinal purposes and quickly became a symbol of purity and long life.