Featured Japanese lacquer box. Meiji?

This box arrived in the mail yesterday from my Brother in Palm Springs CA. They purchased it at an estate sale there in their neighborhood. He said it was described as Japanese Locking lacquer box Meiji. He didn't tell me what he paid but said it wasn't much because it was damaged. The only real damage is the missing brads that hold the hinge on the body. other than some age related wear to the paint and lacquer. It measures 12" x 4" x 3" .
The foliage and birds are done in gold makie?
I have showed a few other people and I am just not sure. I think maybe more like Taisho period, But i love it and will be getting the lid fixed soon.
Mikey

 

It's pretty, Mikey! I can see why you're loving it!

 

Nice, looks Meiji to me. Probably a scroll box.

 

Thanks @Bakersgma The pics just don't do it justice. After I get through with fixing it and cleaning it up it will be awesome. I also need to find a key. Probably impossible?
Mikey

 

Thank you very much @Ce BCA
I just didn't know. Appreciate your opinion.
Mikey

 

Too bad you don't live closer to Bev. I bet she would have a key.

 

Yeah. Just a bit far to drive over a weekend lol.

 

I agree, late Meiji.

I keep fans in similar Meiji lacquer boxes, but then I would.

 

Of course, Who wouldn't. Thanks A J....

 

Beautiful!

 

I can see why your brother nabbed it. I would have too. Brads are pretty easy to get. Add an itty bitty hammer and bob's your uncle.

 

Nice box & even nicer brother.

The key looks like those kinds that have a tube-like shaft. Some old curio cabinets used them. I wish you lived closer cause I have a pile in several different sizes.

 

Great looking box. Funny enough I received a lacquer writing box as a present last week from my dad. Also with birds and flowers. But my box has had a very hard and well used life. Locking mechanism looks similar (but also no key)

 

Now that's an interesting box for sure! Do both sides open?
Mikey

 

Thanks. Lots of character but really in need of some restoration..

 

Shows its age for sure. That is full of character.

 

Beautiful present, Boland. After a bit of tlc it will look great again. Even a wipe with oil will bring out that decoration beautifully.

 

Thanks Any Jewelry. Yes,I will definitely do that..

 

Oil?