The use of mother-of-pearl is a central feature of the work of Sekino Kohei (1943-), a graduate of Tama University of Arts who currently lives and works in Kanagawa Prefecture. The interior of this very striking set of stacking boxes is finished in black lacquer. The exterior is covered in an irregular arrangement of perfectly fitting pieces of Japanese abalone shell. The supreme quality of Sekino's craftsmanship can be seen in the gently curving contours of the lid, which has been carved from a solid block of wood. Sekino studied for thirteen years under the late Kuroda Tatsuaki (1904-1982; appointed Living National Treasure in 1970). Like his teacher Sekino finds inspiration in the wood and lacquer crafts of Korea, particularly those of the Choson period (1392-1910).In this respect he differs from the majority of Japanese artists specialising in the use of mother-of-pearl, for whom native lacquerworking precedents are the primary source of inspiration.