Description

An Imperial Japanese Meiji Shibayama Tea Cabinet by The Tokugawa Samurai Clan

An Imperial Japanese Meiji Shibayama Tea Cabinet by The Tokugawa Samurai Clan – A Rare Masterpiece of Japanese Art and Craftsmanship

We are proud to present the Imperial Japanese Meiji Shibayama Tea Cabinet by The Tokugawa Samurai Clan, an exceptional 19th-century artifact that embodies the pinnacle of Japanese artistry, craftsmanship, and imperial symbolism.

Attributed to the prestigious Tokugawa samurai lineage, this cabinet represents both the cultural heritage of the Meiji period and the technical mastery of shibayama inlay work, offering a rare and historically significant addition to any collection of fine Asian antiques.

An Imperial Japanese Meiji Shibayama Tea Cabinet by The Tokugawa Samurai Clan

Crafted during the Meiji period, the cabinet reflects Japan’s dynamic cultural transformation, when traditional artistic practices were combined with new influences from modernization while retaining deep respect for symbolic meaning and ceremonial function.

The cabinet is made using hand-carved wood, mother-of-pearl inlay, and lacquer, with each surface meticulously decorated by master artisans. See more of our artisan designs in the woodwork gallery

The steam-bent woodwork and intricate shibayama technique result in a luxurious visual and tactile experience, while preserving durability for long-term display.

An Imperial Japanese Meiji Shibayama Tea Cabinet by The Tokugawa Samurai Clan

Symbolism and Iconography:
The cabinet’s base features two dragons locked in a dramatic duel, a symbol of power, wisdom, and balance, reflecting traditional Japanese and Shinto beliefs.

Unlike Western dragons, Japanese dragons are benevolent and connected to water, serving as guardians of natural forces. The duel of the dragons mirrors the philosophical harmony between opposing forces, a central theme in Japanese culture and a subtle nod to the Tokugawa clan’s governance and strategic prowess.

An Imperial Japanese Meiji Shibayama Tea Cabinet by The Tokugawa Samurai Clan

The doors of the cabinet are adorned with exquisite shibayama work, depicting birds soaring over cherry blossoms and tranquil Japanese gardens, reflecting the Meiji-era celebration of nature and the concept of mono no aware, the transient beauty of life.

The central panel is a striking feature, embellished with cinnabar and lacquer inlay, highlighting the extraordinary craftsmanship of the period. Fans depicted on the doors and panels, decorated with dragons and natural motifs, further enhance the aesthetic appeal, symbolizing social status, elegance, and ceremonial refinement.

An Imperial Japanese Meiji Shibayama Tea Cabinet by The Tokugawa Samurai Clan

At the pinnacle of this imperial cabinet lies the Tokugawa Mon (family crest), featuring the iconic triple hollyhock motif, flanked by a phoenix, a revered symbol of immortality, renewal, and harmony.

In Japanese mythology, the phoenix represents resilience and the cyclical nature of life, while the Mon emphasizes the authority, legacy, and cultural influence of the Tokugawa clan. Together, these symbols convey a powerful narrative of heritage, protection, and prestige.

An Imperial Japanese Meiji Shibayama Tea Cabinet by The Tokugawa Samurai Clan

Historical Significance:
The Tokugawa clan ruled Japan from 1603 to 1868, fostering peace, stability, and cultural growth during the Edo period. Their patronage of the arts led to remarkable advancements in lacquerware, ceramics, metalwork, and furniture design.

This cabinet is a rare and tangible testament to their influence, reflecting centuries of refinement, artistic excellence, and ceremonial importance. The dragons, phoenix, and Tokugawa Mon motifs collectively highlight the clan’s enduring role as guardians of Japanese tradition and aesthetics. Enhance your interior style with exquisite decor pieces

An Imperial Japanese Meiji Shibayama Tea Cabinet by The Tokugawa Samurai Clan

Functionality and Design Features:
Beyond its aesthetic and symbolic significance, the cabinet is also highly functional, containing multiple compartments for tea ceremony implements or display purposes.

Each compartment door is carefully enhanced with carved phoenixes and natural motifs, reinforcing the cabinet’s thematic emphasis on renewal, prosperity, and harmony.

A small bridge adorned with foo dogs further exemplifies protective symbolism, integrating traditional Japanese beliefs into the practical design of the cabinet.

Dimensions and Specifications An Imperial Japanese Meiji Shibayama Tea Cabinet by The Tokugawa Samurai Clan :

• Date of Manufacture: 19th Century (Meiji Period)

• Origin: Japan

• Height: 84 in (213.36 cm)

• Width: 56 in (142.24 cm)

• Depth: 20 in (50.8 cm)

• Materials: Lacquer, Mother-of-Pearl, Wood

• Techniques: Hand-carved, Inlay, Shibayama work

• Condition: Very good; minor fading to lacquer consistent with age; museum-quality preservation

• Provenance: Attributed to the Tokugawa Samurai Clan

• Style: Meiji, period-specific

An Imperial Japanese Meiji Shibayama Tea Cabinet by The Tokugawa Samurai Clan

This cabinet is not merely a piece of furniture—it is a museum-quality artifact, a symbol of Japanese cultural sophistication, and a collector’s treasure.

Its combination of symbolic dragons, phoenixes, cherry blossoms, and Tokugawa Mon motifs, alongside meticulous handcrafted shibayama work, makes it a unique representation of Meiji-period artistry and imperial craftsmanship. See the Exceptional Mahogany and Ormolu Mounted Bibliotheque 1880

An Imperial Japanese Meiji Shibayama Tea Cabinet by The Tokugawa Samurai Clan

For modern collectors and connoisseurs of fine Asian art, this Imperial Japanese Meiji Shibayama Tea Cabinet can be acquired using the most reputable cryptocurrencies, ensuring a secure, convenient, and contemporary method for obtaining a piece of Japan’s imperial heritage.

Owning this cabinet provides not only a connection to the historical and cultural legacy of the Tokugawa clan but also an exclusive opportunity to possess a museum-quality masterpiece that embodies centuries of artistic excellence.

The Imperial Japanese Meiji Shibayama Tea Cabinet by The Tokugawa Samurai Clan represents the perfect synthesis of art, history, and ceremonial function, offering collectors a rare glimpse into the beauty, symbolism, and refinement of Japan’s Meiji era.

“An Imperial Japanese Meiji Shibayama Tea Cabinet by The Tokugawa Samurai Clan – Timeless Mastery and Cultural Legacy, Now Available for Purchase with Trusted Cryptocurrencies.”