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Incense Box (Kōgō) with Interlinked Circles (Shippō) Pattern

early 17th century
Not on view
Japanese artisans developed “Kamakura carving” in the Muromachi period (1392–1573) to imitate Chinese carved lacquer. In this technique, patterns are carved into wood and then coated with layers of red and black lacquer. The incense box here has an auspicious pattern of interlinked circles (shippō) in a continuous, chainlike motif that symbolizes prosperity and continuation. Moore often used the pattern to embellish silverware.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • 七宝繋根来彫香合
  • Title: Incense Box (Kōgō) with Interlinked Circles (Shippō) Pattern
  • Period: Momoyama period (1573–1615)
  • Date: early 17th century
  • Culture: Japan
  • Medium: Carved wood with red and black lacquer layers (Kamakura-bori)
  • Dimensions: H. 1 1/8 in. (2.9 cm); Diam. 3 1/8 in. (7.9 cm)
  • Classification: Lacquer
  • Credit Line: Edward C. Moore Collection, Bequest of Edward C. Moore, 1891
  • Object Number: 91.1.640
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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