Details
Description
Vintage 1957 Korean Najeonchilgi Black Lacquer Presentation Smoking Box with Brass Ashtray
An exceptional and historically significant mid-century Korean Najeonchilgi …
Read more
Vintage 1957 Korean Najeonchilgi Black Lacquer Presentation Smoking Box with Brass Ashtray
An exceptional and historically significant mid-century Korean Najeonchilgi (mother-of-pearl lacquerware) presentation smoking/valet box. Crafted in September 1957, this exquisite rectangular box serves as both a high-end decorative art piece and a fascinating capsule of mid-century diplomatic history.
Artistry & Exterior Design
The exterior features a highly detailed, hand-inlaid abalone shell landscape scene on the lid depicting a traditional East Asian tiered pavilion resting beside a serene body of water with swimming mandarin ducks. On the right, two figures are beautifully detailed—one playing a traditional flute (daegeum). The landscape elements are accented by a gorgeous, shimmering coppery-gold metallic dust lacquered background. The design is framed by repeating geometric diamond-shaped mother-of-pearl accents wrapped around all four side panels, resting securely on four integrated bracket feet.
Interior & Historical Provenance
The interior is designed as a luxury tobacco presentation set, featuring a large storage compartment, a central slot for a matchbox or lighter, and its original, removable solid brass ashtray bowl flanked by delicate inlaid mother-of-pearl butterflies.
The inner lid features a pristine gold-painted presentation inscription detailing its exact origins:
• Commemorative Event: "渡美記念" (Commemoration of Visiting America)
• Exact Historical Date: "4290. 9. 6" — Dated using the traditional Korean Dangi calendar system, which converts precisely to September 6, 1957.
• Presenter: "商經研友會 謹呈" (Respectfully presented by the Commerce and Economics Alumni Association, historically tied to Yonsei University in Seoul).
A remarkably well-preserved, highly collectible piece perfect for collectors of Tobacciana, Asian Art, or mid-century political and academic memorabilia.
• Width: ~ 8.5 inches
• Depth: ~ 4 inches
• Height: ~ 2.25 inches
See less
- Dimensions
- 8.5ʺW × 4ʺD × 2.25ʺH
- Period
- 1960s
- Country of Origin
- Korea, Republic of
- Item Type
- Vintage, Antique or Pre-owned
- Materials
- Abalone
- Lacquer
- Wood
- Condition
- Good Condition, Original Condition Unaltered, Some Imperfections
- Color
- Black
- Condition Notes
- Very Good Vintage Condition. Shows minor, age-appropriate light surface wear and faint patina to the removable brass bowl. The lacquer … moreVery Good Vintage Condition. Shows minor, age-appropriate light surface wear and faint patina to the removable brass bowl. The lacquer finish remains glossy, and all mother-of-pearl inlay work is completely intact. less
Questions about the item?
Returns & Cancellations
Return Policy - All sales are final 48 hours after delivery, unless otherwise specified in the description of the product.
Cancellation Policy - Prior to shipping or local pickup, buyers may cancel an order for up to 48 hours, unless otherwise specified.
Related Collections
- Tony Duquette Boxes
- Polyester Boxes
- Enzo Mari Boxes
- Alessandro Albrizzi Boxes
- Anthony Redmile Boxes
- Abaca Boxes
- Violet Boxes
- Acacia Wood Boxes
- Ettore Sottsass Boxes
- Bright Green Boxes
- Port 68 Boxes
- Zitan Boxes
- Jewelry Boxes
- Burlwood Boxes
- Hat Boxes
- Silver Boxes
- Japanese Boxes
- Pill Boxes
- Maitland - Smith Boxes
- Cigar Boxes
- Porcupine Quill Boxes
- Tool Boxes
- Alabaster Boxes
- Porcelain Boxes
- Brass Boxes