Shell Game (Kaiawase) Set

18th century

Not on view

The shell game was a popular pastime in the Edo period. Sets like this one were often included in a daimyo bride's trousseau. To play the game, a number of shells are divided between two boxes. One group is taken out and then matched one at a time to the halves from the second box. Pairs of related scenes from the Tale of Genji and other romances are painted on the inside of the shells as clues.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

Title: Shell Game (Kaiawase) Set
Period: Edo period (1615–1868)
Date: 18th century
Culture: Japan
Medium: Clam shells painted in gold and color
Dimensions: Each approx.: H. 3/4 in. (1.9 cm); W. 3 in. (7.6 cm); D. 2 3/8 in. (6 cm)
Classification: Shell
Credit Line: Gift of Yukikazu Iwasa, in honor of Mrs. Shizuko Iwasa, 1988
Object Number: 1988.289.1a, b–.31a, b
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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