Cosmetic Box (Mayudzukuri-bako) with Pine, Bamboo, and Cherry Blossoms from a Wedding Set

early 19th century

Not on view

This lacquer box for eyebrow cosmetics, including a variety of brushes, was part of a spectacular wedding trousseau. It was commissioned to celebrate the marriage of Princess Taka (1809–1862) of the Shimazu clan (one of the wealthiest and most politically influential daimyo families of the time) to a son of the Matsudaira clan, relatives of the Tokugawa. The two family crests on the piece—the Shimazu cross in a circle and the Matsudaira stylized plum flower—symbolize the union. The pine and bamboo motifs are auspicious symbols associated with longevity and resilience and allude to good wishes for a happy marriage.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

松竹桜家紋蒔絵眉作箱
Title: Cosmetic Box (Mayudzukuri-bako) with Pine, Bamboo, and Cherry Blossoms from a Wedding Set
Period: Edo period (1615–1868)
Date: early 19th century
Culture: Japan
Medium: Lacquered wood with gold, silver takamaki-e, hiramaki-e, cut-out gold and silver foil application on nashiji (“pear-skin”) ground
Dimensions: H. 8 1/4 in. (21 cm); W. 10 5/8 in. (27 cm); D. 8 1/4 in. (21 cm)
Classification: Lacquer
Credit Line: Purchase, Friends of Asian Art Gifts, 2018
Object Number: 2018.357a–n
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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