Decorated "Shark" Skin (Kazari-zame)

ca. 1800–1850

Not on view

This decorated "shark" skin was a highly valued gift in the Edo period, as high quality rayskin, harvested in Indonesia and Thailand, was difficult to obtain owing to Japan's closed door policy. Rayskin was used for sword grips and decorated shark skins of this type were a common gift made within the samurai and daimyo ranks, where the material was especially appreciated.

Artwork Details

Overview

Signatures, Inscriptions, and Markings

Provenance

Title: Decorated "Shark" Skin (Kazari-zame)
Date: ca. 1800–1850
Culture: Japanese
Medium: Wood, rayskin (same), silk, gold, paper
Dimensions: 20 1/2 x 3 3/4 x 2 7/8 in. (52 x 9.5 x 7.5 cm)
Classification: Miscellaneous
Credit Line: Purchase, Arthur Ochs Sulzberger Gift, 2006
Object Number: 2006.177a–d
Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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