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Incense Box (kōbako) in the Shape of Five Volumes of The Tale of Genji

late 19th century
Not on view
This refined incense box in the shape of five books bound by a brocade cover bears the tale’s title in Japanese, Genji monogatari. The brocade design features medallion-shaped Chinese lions, peonies, and scattered “auspicious treasures.” The incense tray inside is embellished with a rolled-up bamboo blind and an attached “medicine ball” (kusudama), a hanging ornament that served as an amulet.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • 源氏物語草紙蒔絵香箱
  • Title: Incense Box (kōbako) in the Shape of Five Volumes of The Tale of Genji
  • Period: Meiji period (1868–1912)
  • Date: late 19th century
  • Culture: Japan
  • Medium: Lacquered wood with gold and silver takamaki-e, hiramaki-e, and togidashimaki-e, cutout gold- and silver-foil application, and red and green lacquer
  • Dimensions: H. 1 1/2 in. (3.8 cm); W. 3 1/8 in. (7.9 cm); L. 4 3/8 in. (11.1 cm)
  • Classification: Lacquer
  • Credit Line: Gift of Mrs. George A. Crocker (Elizabeth Masten), 1937
  • Object Number: 38.25.165a–c
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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