Box with Grapevines, a Squirrel, and a Garden Scene

17th century

Not on view

In China, squirrels were traditionally associated with reproductive power and clusters of grapes with abundance, together forming an auspicious theme popular in ink paintings, textiles, and ceramics. Because sons were seen as crucial to carrying on the family name and to supporting their parents in old age, such imagery often expressed a wish for many boys. Similarly, in Korea the combination symbolized longevity and good fortune. Inspired by these conventional associations, the lacquer artisan who designed this box created a playful composition with curling tendrils and plump grapes. These elements are infused with rich texture through the juxtaposition of thick mother-of-pearl with black lacquer, as well as through the addition of fine incised details to the surface of the inlays.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

葡萄栗鼠庭園螺鈿箱
Title: Box with Grapevines, a Squirrel, and a Garden Scene
Date: 17th century
Culture: Japan, Ryūkyū Islands
Medium: Lacquered wood with mother-of-pearl inlay
Dimensions: H. 5 3/4 in. (14.6 cm); W. 6 5/8 in. (16.8 cm); L. 8 3/4 in. (22.2 cm)
Classification: Lacquer
Credit Line: Gift of Florence and Herbert Irving, 2019
Object Number: 2019.193.48
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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