Posted 8 years ago
Gdhiker
(1 item)
Measurements- 10 3/4 Tall
3 3/8 wide at mouth and base
5 1/4 appr. wide at body of vessel
Black enameled concave interior base
Brownish finish exterior similar to tarnished brass or grainless wood
Brilliant radiance of mother of pearl inlay
Gold font and emblem signifying origin and maker
As a Amateur treasure hunter my eyes are taking in and understanding what I'm seeing more and more everyday. I don't ever want a "job" again! This is fun!
Anyway I regress. Obviously not a monumental find but I ran across this at a HIGHLY priced thrift store but took my chances for $50.00. It just seemed fairly unique. You don't see mother of pearl Tupperware to often so it kind of stuck out. I'm not very familiar with Maruni so if anyone can enlighten and school me regarding how many pieces were made of this particular vase and why it might be "special" I'm assuming this was a much more limited run compared to their normal product quality line. If it's worth $2.00, I'll be fine with that just for the fact that I really appreciate the piece. My guess would be approximately $75-$150 but no ones ever paid me for my opinion. Anyway, great site. I'll be visiting much more often now I found it
Can't help for your questions, but love your piece!
I think the invest was not a waste for such an interesting vase :-)
Welcome to CW!
I think the price you paid was OK. Depending on age and size these seem to range from $50 to $100, occasionally more.
Maruni lacquer ware was widely exported post war from Japan but I think this piece is possibly later, as it is not noted Made in Occupied Japan.
It is a very skillful process, making the lacquer shape on the metal base and then cutting out and placing the mother of pearl.
These often came with a copper or aluminium insert to hold water for flowers. If it did originally, there may be witness marks where this sat in the neck.
I think the name was an export name as I can't find any Maruni named lacquer ware for sale in Japan. Inlaid lacquer ware is not so commonly made in Japan now.
Have you had any luck finding out more info on your vase? I have a very similar vase with the same info on the vase bottom but have not been able to find any information.