Korean Najeon-chilgi Jewelry Box - Mother of Pearl Crane - Turtle Clasp - El Corte Ingles - Vintage 1960

Lacquered wood jewelry box with mother-of-pearl inlays, crafted using the traditional Korean Najeon-chilgi technique. This piece was originally retailed at El Corte Inglés in Madrid, retaining its original price tag in pesetas on the base.

History of the object: The Najeon-chilgi technique is an ancient Korean craft using sea shell fragments to create decorative motifs on lacquered surfaces. The iconography of this box features two cranes (symbolizing happiness) flying toward a rising sun, while the mechanical turtle-shaped clasp represents longevity in East Asian tradition.

Details and Condition:
- Period: 1960s
- Technique: Lacquer with mother-of-pearl (nacre) inlay
- Dimensions: 14 cm x 9 cm x 5 cm (5.5 x 3.5 x 1.9 inches)
- Material: Wood, nacre, metal, and velvet lining
- Interior: Equipped with an original mirror and ring compartment lined in deep red velvet
- Condition: Good vintage condition. Displays light clouding of the varnish and fine surface scratches on the base due to historical use. The closing mechanism is fully functional.

Value: A piece of interest for collectors of Oriental decorative arts and vintage items with documented provenance from mid-20th century Spanish luxury retail.