Square red lacquer box with exceptional phoenix decoration and enhanced with gold - 19th century, Japan

Square box in red lacquer with exceptional phoenix decoration and enhanced with gold - 19th century, japan the phoenix is a bird with great symbolic power: on its head it bears the symbol of the virtue of humanity, on its wings conformity morality, on the back justice, on the chest benevolence and on the stomach good faith. It is the symbol of renewal, and in japan, in january 1 meals, phoenix decorations are sought after. The very rich golden decoration of this box is unique. The design was engraved on the lacquer then using a fine brush a layer of gold was deposited in the engraving line. The phoenix seems to fly out of the lacquer. The four sides of the box bear different designs requiring great elegance. Despite my research, I did not find any other boxes of this type, which makes it a rare object. This box has been used very little. It has no defects. The decoration, a phoenix, is masterfully engraved in red lacquer then gilded with gold. Please check the photos.