Cicada-shaped hanging flower basket, early 20th century
Tanabe Chikuunsaiexpand_more
Bambooexpand_more
The John R. Van Derlip Fund; purchase from the collection of Elizabeth and Willard Clarkexpand_more 2013.31.170a,b
Not on Viewexpand_more
Summer in Japan means blazing heat and humidity—and the inescapable clicks and chirps of cicadas. Some sing “sha sha sha” or “meen meen meeeeeeen” only in the morning. Others sing only on cool afternoons or only at dusk, signaling the end of the day with their “ki ki ki.” Love them or hate them, hundreds of cicadas seem to cling to every tree in sight.
This hanging basket for displaying flowers takes the shape of this enduring symbol of summer; in fact, cicadas are among a select few animals who lend their form to traditional bamboo basketry. When hung on a wall, its remarkably naturalistic legs, skin, eyes, and wings (woven separately and attached with ties of thin rattan) make it appear as if it has just landed there.
Details
- Title
- Cicada-shaped hanging flower basket
- Artist Life
- 1877 - 1937
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 2013.31.170a,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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