Sword Case (Katana-tsutsu) with Clematis and Checkered Pattern

17th century

Not on view

Decorative—and expensive—lacquer sword cases were made for carrying the most treasured swords of the daimyo (feudal lords) while traveling. Those made for presentation were especially richly embellished. This example has an elaborate design of clematis vines combined with a checkered pattern on its lower section. Associated with summer, the clematis is considered auspicious in Japan for its ability to climb upward on fences. The stylized, flat maki-e decoration of the case follows the Kōdaiji-style lacquers prepared in Kyoto in the Momoyama period (1573–1615) to suit the taste of the warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1537–1598). Kōdaiji wares and those produced until the 1630s as export furniture for the Western market are strongly connected, as exemplified by the abstract geometric pattern and mother-of-pearl inlay here.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

鉄線格子縞蒔絵刀筒
Title: Sword Case (Katana-tsutsu) with Clematis and Checkered Pattern
Period: Edo period (1615–1868)
Date: 17th century
Culture: Japan
Medium: Lacquered wood with gold and silver hiramaki-e, silver foil application, and mother-of-pearl inlay on black lacquer
Dimensions: L. 42 3/4 in. (108.6 cm)
Classification: Lacquer
Credit Line: Gift of Florence and Herbert Irving, 2015
Object Number: 2015.500.2.38a, b
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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