Spiny lobsters (Ise-ebi) emerging from seaweed, c. 1930-1940
Unknown Japaneseexpand_more
Lacquerexpand_more
Gift of Douglas and Elaine Barr in memory of Stewart Barrexpand_more 2019.88
Not on Viewexpand_more
This is a low, two-panel folding screen by an unknown artist, decorated with an undersea design of three spiny lobster (Ise-ebi) swimming out from a clump of undulating seaweed. The image is carved out of many layers of colored lacquer (iro wake chōshitsu) that first had to applied in a time-consuming manner starting with beige, orange, yellow, blue, and ending in brown.
The appearance of tan and blue pigments in lacquers in the early 20th century reflects technical innovations that were previously unavailable. The beige color was achieved with titanium, an extremely hard metal that created new challenges for those working in carved lacquer. The material was so difficult to work with that it often broke steel knives when artists attempted to carve it.
Details
- Title
- Spiny lobsters (Ise-ebi) emerging from seaweed
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 2019.88
- 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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