Shinichi Miyazaki Spalted Maple Tassel Mini Shoulder Bag, Signed

Japanese artistic philosophy sees value and beauty in the utilitarian, which has led to the beautiful craftsmanship and decoration of various goods not traditionally seen as art by the Western standard. Born in Tokyo, Shinichi Miyazaki is a contemporary sculptor and artist primarily working in wood as his medium.

After moving to the US in 1967, Miyazaki honed his craft and began a career creating everything from furniture to accessories having some of his work in the Smithsonian collections. Inspired by traditional Japanese inro, purse-like canisters used for carrying official seals or other small objects.

The ovular bag is a modern take on inro done in a smooth, light wood, presumably maple. Faint striations of the wood add a natural design that is balanced by the contrast of darker veins towards the top. Attached to a black cord ending in a passementerie style tassel, the lid simply slides up and down to open and close the handbag.

Measurements:

Width: 5 inches

Height: 3.5 inches

Depth: 1.5 inches

Strap drop: 27 inches

The simple design and natural element at the forefront make this bag a beautiful and artistic vintage accessory. The strap of the bag allows for it to be worn either on the shoulder or as a cross-body. At the bottom, the artist’s signature, S. Miyazaki is carved into the wood. In excellent condition, high-quality vintage pieces like this are yours to live in and love while increasing in value every year. It’s never too soon to start collecting them, as an investment in your wardrobe—and in yourself.