Butterfly and Peony Mother-of-Pearl and Maki-e Box

This box is for makeup and small items. The entire box is embedded with gold dust and has butterflies, peonies, and arabesque designs shown in mother-of-pearl. Metal fittings with strings were created in the shape of butterflies. The craftsman who made this box in the 19th century referenced a similar box produced in the 13th century (currently kept at the Hatakeyama Memorial Museum of Fine Art) that was designated as a national treasure and faithfully reproduced it. The high level of craftsmanship is apparent.