Box for Accessories (Sumiaka-tebako) with Chrysanthemums and Autumn Grasses

late 16th century

Not on view

In the Momoyama period, a new style of lacquer decoration, named after the Kōdaiji Temple, developed in Kyoto to cater to the flamboyant taste of the warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The corners of this rectangular box are covered in red lacquer, under which a thick layer of hemp—part of the foundation—is visible. The decoration of chrysanthemums and autumn grasses is executed in flat, gold hiramaki-e, whose fine lines create a striking contrast with the black-lacquer background. Lacquers made for the European market around the same time are embellished in a similar style and technique.

Artwork Details

菊秋草蒔絵角赤手箱
Title: Box for Accessories (Sumiaka-tebako) with Chrysanthemums and Autumn Grasses
Period: Momoyama period (1573–1615)
Date: late 16th century
Culture: Japan
Medium: Lacquered wood with gold hiramaki-e on black ground; red lacquer applied on hemp
Dimensions: H. 7 1/2 in. (19.1 cm); W. 11 3/8 in. (28.9 cm); L. 13 in. (33 cm)
Classification: Lacquer
Credit Line: Mary Griggs Burke Collection, Gift of the Mary and Jackson Burke Foundation, 2015
Object Number: 2015.300.290a, b
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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