Moon and Chrysanthemum Jubako Bento Box

Chrysanthemums unfold in shimmering gold, blooming quietly beneath an unseen moon. Their petals, etched with delicate precision, come to life across a surface so smooth and dark it seems to hold its own reflection. This two-tier jubako bento box is adorned with the work of Takade Eiji, a master of chinkin—the centuries-old art of engraving lacquer and filling each incision with gold leaf and gold powder.

Crafted entirely by hand, the chinkin embellishment is the soul of this piece. A single band of chrysanthemums, carved line by line with a fine blade, drifts across the jet-black surface like a stream of golden light. Every petal and leaf holds depth and texture—each stroke capturing a fleeting moment of seasonal beauty. The lacquer, polished to a mirror-like gloss, subtly reflects its surroundings—like still water catching the image of the moon. From a distance, the gold gleams softly; up close, the intricacy unfurls like a flower at the height of its bloom.

Beneath the gold lies a foundation of true Wajima lacquerware—crafted entirely from natural lacquer, built up in many layers, and polished with precision. The bold, minimalist form is paired with an interior of deep vermilion, offering a vivid contrast that turns each tier into a striking stage for celebratory fare.

Traditionally used to present osechi ryori during the Japanese New Year, this piece, however, transcends its seasonal origins. Whether brought out for special family gatherings or meaningful milestones, it becomes part of the moment—marking time with its presence. As the years pass, the lacquer matures, the ornamentation mellows, and the box takes on a warmth uniquely its own. More than a vessel, it is an heirloom in the making—a lasting expression of chinkin artistry and Wajima craftsmanship that can be passed down and appreciated for generations to come.

Takade Eiji

Upon the pristine surface of Wajima lacquerware, master craftsman Takade Eiji carves a world of gold with the precise strokes of his many chisels. For over fifty years, he has dedicated himself to chinkin, a meticulous craft that embellishes lacquerware with finely carved lines and dots inlaid with gold. This artistry adds a layer of refinement and intricacy. His works reveal a lifetime of skill, patience, and unwavering dedication, yet Takade remains a humble craftsman, focused solely on bringing each piece to its rightful completion.

Wajima lacquerware, one of Japan's most esteemed lacquerware, finds its home in Wajima City, nestled in the northwest corner of the Noto Peninsula. This illustrious craft, flourishing since the Edo period (1603 CE - 1867 CE), is distinguished by its rich foundation and decorative embellishments that promise both aesthetic and functional excellence.

With an astounding number of steps in its production process, its sumptuous lacquer coat and exquisite decorations draw one into the mesmerizing world of Wajima artistry. Honored as an Important Intangible Cultural Property in 1975, Wajima lacquerware gracefully continues its evolution while maintaining the rich tapestry of its ancient traditions.