oblong box with beveled corners; lid with beveled edges; chrysanthemums and leaves amid stylized waves motif; beveled edges are decorated with chrysanthemums and vines on gold ground; crane-shaped metal fittings for cords on front and back of box

Box with chrysanthemums and flowing water, 17th century

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The motif of chrysanthemums floating in water, here executed in gold on a black lacquer ground, appears in a variety of Japanese artistic media, including bronzes, painting, lacquerware, and textiles. Introduced to Japan from China as early as the twelfth century, the motif is associated with longevity.

Maki-e (literally “sprinkled picture”) designs are created by the application of gold, silver, and other metallic dust to a lacquer-painted design. It is a technique that has been used in Japan since ancient times.

Details
Title
Box with chrysanthemums and flowing water
Role
Artist
Accession Number
2015.79.389a,b
Catalogue Raisonne
Murase, Art through a Lifetime, no. 751
Curator Approved

This record is from historic documentation and may not have been reviewed by a curator, so may be inaccurate or incomplete. Our 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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oblong box with beveled corners; lid with beveled edges; chrysanthemums and leaves amid stylized waves motif; beveled edges are decorated with chrysanthemums and vines on gold ground; crane-shaped metal fittings for cords on front and back of box