The crane is a mystical creature that occupies a special place of symbolism in Japanese art – it represents longevity and good fortune; it is traditionally believed to have a lifespan of a thousand years. As the "bird of paradise," it is also believed to carry departed souls to a heavenly realm. The crane motif is realized here in chinkin, a technique involving special chisels are used to engrave a pattern onto the lacquered surface. The design is imbued with colour by applying an additional layer of lacquer to the chisel's tracings and inlaying gold leaf or gold powder.