Japanese Lacquer Boxes

Maki-e translates from Japanese to mean sprinkled pictures, a definition that perfectly captures the art form that has inspired this cover. Purchased from a private collector in Kyoto, the original maki-e lacquer box carrying this design dates back to either the Edo or Meiji period.Most countries make a dedicated effort to preserve their cultural legacies, but Japan is a leader in ensuring that traditional forms of art and craft remain not just honoured but widely practiced.

The Paperblanks Japanese Lacquer Boxes designs feature art that was created centuries ago, as do many Paperblanks journals. What makes this series stand out is that while many techniques celebrated by our journals have been largely relegated to history, the maki-e lacquerware tradition adorning these covers still has its adepts.

Maki-e is just one of many Japanese decorative techniques involving the use of lacquer. The name o