This rectangular box of impressive size is entirely lacquered with a very dense pear-skin pattern (nashiji) ground. The lacquered lid is decorated on both sides with different scenes. The top of the lid features a lakeside landscape with a couple of mandarin ducks swimming in front of a grove of chrysanthemums. The two birds are depicted in a naturalistic way in relief, thanks to a mixture of lacquer and charcoal powder covered with gold or silver powder (takamaki-e), with red lacquer highlights. The various elements of the landscape are shaped in cut gold leaf (kirigane) and powdered gold and silver spray (maki-e). The flowers were incised with a needle on the still fresh lacquer (harigaki) and enhanced by embossed metallic leaves.

The inside of the lid is decorated with a rock and two Nandina trees (sacred bamboos) behind a fence. The artist worked in a naturalistic way for the trees, using a subtle gradation of gold and silver lacquer to shade he leaves. The bright red berries are a striking contrast with the other elements.

The design on this box is a reference to the seasonal cycle: indeed, the chrysanthemum is a flower associated with autumn, while the evergreen sacred bamboo symbolizes winter. In Northeast Asia, Mandarin duck couples stand for marital happiness and are often depicted on wedding gifts.