Antique Japanese or Chinese Lacquered Hard Pillow Red Urushi 1890 to 1930

Antique Japanese/Chinese Lacquered Hard Pillow – Red Urushi with Scenic Decoration (c.1890–1930)

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This unusual piece is a lacquered hard pillow (head-rest), traditionally used in Japan and China from the late 19th to early 20th century. Known as makura in Japan and zhěntou in China, such pillows were designed to support the head and neck without disturbing elaborate hairstyles and to offer a cooler alternative to soft pillows in warm climates.

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Crafted from papier-mâché with textile reinforcement and finished in deep red lacquer (urushi), this pillow features black transfer-style decorations: one side shows a majestic peacock among blossoming foliage, while the other depicts a serene landscape with trees and figures. The designs are framed within stylised cartouches, a decorative touch popular in Meiji-era Japan and late-Qing/Republican China, reflecting the East–West taste for exotic lacquerware during this period.

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Condition

This antique pillow shows authentic signs of age and use. The lacquer surface has scratches, abrasions, and age-related cracks, and one end displays losses to the lacquer revealing the textile base beneath. Despite this wear, the pillow remains structurally sound and highly decorative, with its characterful patina adding to its historical charm.

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Dimensions

Approximate size: 35cm length x 15cm width x 15cm depth

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Why Collect?

A rare survivor of a traditional East Asian domestic object.

Demonstrates the cultural fusion of export lacquerwork.

Attractive as a conversation piece, decorative accent, or addition to a lacquerware or Asian antiques collection.

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Price

Given its rarity and decorative appeal, this piece is priced at £45 (reflecting condition).