Sweets box with violets, 1920s
Kamisaka Sekkaexpand_more
Gold and maki-e laquer on wood, and leadexpand_more
Gift of the Clark Center for Japanese Art & Culture; formerly given to the Center by Joe Brothertonexpand_more 2013.29.74a,b
Not on Viewexpand_more
Covered boxes like this are often used to serve the small cakes provided during tea gatherings to cut the bitter taste of the green tea powder. This kashibako, designed by Kamisaka Sekka, hints at the wabi aesthetic, which prizes naturalistic or imperfect objects. Though the box’s smooth, round shape stands in direct contrast to the rustic ceramics favored by wabi style practitioners, the rough grain of the wood is retained on the outside of the piece. The exterior of the container is covered in a thin coat of clear lacquer, lending the natural wood a glossy finish, while the lid is coated in black lacquer with a design of gentians in silver and gold.
Details
- Title
- Sweets box with violets
- Artist Life
- 1866 - 1942
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 2013.29.74a,b
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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