This is a good papier mâché, rectangular shaped black lacquered box with a hinged lid, hand enamelled and gilded, made in Japan during the 19th century, early Meiji period.
This rectangular shaped papier mâché box has a well fitting hinged lid, with a press button catch to the front, the lid being slightly domed. The box was probably originally made as a writing / pen box as it has three internal compartments. 
This is a very decorative box with finely hand painted scenes of people walking along a country track carrying goods. The hand painting is very well done, with fine detailed gilt work and coloured enamels, all set against a black lacquered ground.
The inside and base of the box and lid are all black lacquered.
This is a very decorative, finely hand painted piece and ideal as a gift with the box having many possible uses.
 
Depth *
3.88 in
Width *
8.7 in
Height *
1.38 in