Sato Mokko: Phoenix Tamatebako　Treasure Box in Black Lacquer

Phoenix Tamatebako　Treasure Box in Black Lacquer

Delivery: 5 months

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All orders are shipped internationally via EMS, DHL, or FedEx with delivery fully managed from Japan to your residence and tracked throughout. 

Against the profound depth of jet-black lacquer, an auspicious bird takes flight. 

This work is an octagonal Tamatebako that masterfully employs traditional lacquer techniques, elevated into a form of contemporary sculptural beauty. Layer upon layer of lacquer has been meticulously applied to create a deep, lustrous black surface with remarkable richness and moisture-like depth. Reflecting its surroundings like a mirror, it creates an atmosphere of serenity and quiet refinement.

Adorning the lid is an opulent gold phoenix ornament of exceptional craftsmanship. Long regarded as a symbol of peace, happiness, and prosperity, the phoenix is rendered in bold high-relief with vivid movement and vitality. From the delicate layering of its feathers to the graceful curves of its flowing tail, every detail reveals the hand of a master artisan. As the light changes, so too does its expression, offering new beauty from every angle.

Supported by the distinguished recognition of selection in a fine art exhibition, this piece stands as a crystallization of technical mastery and artistic passion. Resting upon an elegant gold brocade cushion and tied with red-and-white braided cord, it possesses the noble presence of a supreme vessel worthy of safeguarding treasured objects.

Highlights

• Majestic Jet-Black Finish
  A mesmerizing lacquer sheen applied to the distinctive octagonal form.
• Dynamic Phoenix Motif
  Two phoenixes are arranged in harmonious balance, embodying wishes for auspicious fortune.
• Recognized Artistic Merit
  A selected exhibition work acknowledged for its artistic value, with commanding presence as a display piece.
• Traditional Presentation
  The gold brocade cushion and braided cord enhance the work with dignity suitable for gifting or ceremonial occasions.

Product Details

• Color: Black
• Included Accessories: Custom paulownia wood box, Gold leaf (Kanazawa gold leaf), Kyoto braided cord (hand-braided using pure silk Karauchi cord), Decorative silk cushion (Kyoto pure silk)
• Artisan: Carefully crafted by Keiichiro Sato

Main Body

• Dimensions: Height: 200 mm / Width: 470 mm / Depth: 470 mm
• Weight: 3.0 kg
• Material: Japanese Camphor wood

Finish

• Authentic Kiso urushi lacquer

Care Instructions

Each piece is individually finished by hand. Please enjoy for years to come the unique warmth of artisan craftsmanship and the striking contrast of contemporary color.

Artist’s Profile

Master Artisan of Contemporary Japanese Furniture
Third-Generation Head of Sato Mokko

Born into the distinguished Sato Mokko workshop—founded in 1934 in Tsuru City, Yamanashi Prefecture—Keiichiro Sato is the third-generation heir to a lineage long revered for exceptional craftsmanship. Once known locally by the saying, “For bridal furnishings, go to Sato Mokko,” the atelier built its reputation through refined heirloom furniture and traditional architectural woodwork.

From an early age, Sato absorbed the discipline of master craftsmanship under the guidance of his grandfather, Zenjuro. He inherited techniques rooted in shrine and temple architecture, including intricate kumiko latticework, complex structural joinery, and precision cabinetry—foundations that would later define his artistic language.

At seventeen, he encountered a defining turning point when the family business faced severe financial hardship under the second generation. Taking on responsibility at a young age, Sato sustained traditional commissions while simultaneously pursuing an independent vision—one that would unite heritage craftsmanship with contemporary form.

Guided by the belief that true craftsmanship is timeless, Sato established his signature genre of Creative Japanese Furniture: works that combine rare solid Japanese zelkova, authentic urushi lacquer, gold leaf, and centuries-old techniques with a bold contemporary sensibility. His creations transcend conventional furniture, emerging instead as collectible works of functional art that embody the Japanese ideal of beauty through utility.

In recent years, his work has received recognition both in Japan and internationally. Exhibitions include the Paris International Salon (recommended invitation), the Cartago Museum in Costa Rica (presented at the request of Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs), exhibitions in Dalian, China, and selection for the Japan–France Contemporary Art World Exhibition for his work TAMATEBAKO. His works have also been presented at The National Art Center, Tokyo, alongside numerous museum exhibitions, solo shows, and publications.

In 2023, a devastating fire destroyed his factory, showroom, tools, and materials accumulated over decades. Yet within only seven months, Sato resumed production—an act that reflects the resilience and uncompromising spirit that define master artisanship.

Today, Keiichiro Sato continues to shape wood in pursuit of works intended to endure not merely for a lifetime, but for generations—objects of substance, beauty, and permanence, created with a view toward the centuries ahead.