Writing Box (Suzuribako) with Chinese Poet Su Dongpo and Attendant

second half 18th century

Not on view

The exterior of the lid of this writing box depicts one of the most famous poets and statesmen in Chinese history, Su Dongpo (1037–1101), also known as Su Shi. He rides a donkey, referencing a story in which he borrowed a farmer’s simple clothes in rainy weather. This box was embellished by burnishing sprinkled gold and silver powders (togidashimaki-e) to achieve a smooth surface and a painterly composition.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

蘇東坡蒔絵硯箱
Title: Writing Box (Suzuribako) with Chinese Poet Su Dongpo and Attendant
Period: Edo period (1615–1868)
Date: second half 18th century
Culture: Japan
Medium: Lacquered wood with gold, silver, and red togidashimaki-e
Dimensions: H. 1 7/8 in. (4.8 cm); W. 8 3/4 in. (22.2 cm); D. 9 3/4 in. (24.8 cm)
Classification: Lacquer
Credit Line: Bequest of Stephen Whitney Phoenix, 1881
Object Number: 81.1.170
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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