MATSUKI HOKEI: A SUPERB TSUISHU LACQUER KISERUZUTSU WITH ROOSTERS, HENS, AND SPARROWS By Matsuki Hokei, signed Hokei 豊慶 Japan, Tokyo, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912) A fine tsuishu (carved red lacquer) pipe case of muso-zutsu type. Superbly carved in relief with a cleverly arranged continuous scene of roosters and hens amongst rocks and blooming flowers, against a black asanoha ground. The inset is carved with sparrows in flight. The rim and himotoshi loop of silver. Slightly worn signature HOKEI within a rounded raised reserve to the bottom. HEIGHT 23 cm Condition: Very good condition with minor wear to details. Provenance: Austrian private collection. Matsuki Hokei was a lacquerer who worked in Tokyo in the early Meiji era and is widely recognized for his superb craftsmanship in Tsuishu. Hokei was a professor at the Tokyo Academy of Fine Arts. Auction comparison: A similar kiseruzutsu by Hokei was sold at Bonhams, The Edward Wrangham Collection of Japanese Art Part IV, 6 November 2013, London, lot 101 (sold for GBP 5,250).