Tray with Scene from the Tale of Genji

Japan

Not on view

The size, geometric motifs, and extensive use of pearl shell suggest that this tray may have been intended for trade to Europe. The imagery, however, derives from the Tale of Genji, one of Japan’s most famous literary works. Written by Lady Murasaki Shikibu (ca. 978–ca. 1014), this lengthy book traces the customs of the aristocratic society and the tumultuous love life of Hikaru Genji, a distant member of the imperial family.

The tray illustrates a moment when Genji (seated in the cart and not visible) passes by a former illicit lover while traveling. Both are assailed by bittersweet memories as they glimpse each other in passing.

Tray with Scene from the Tale of Genji, Black lacquer with gold maki-e and mother-of-pearl inlay, Japan

Due to rights restrictions, this image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Open Access

As part of the Met's Open Access policy, you can freely copy, modify and distribute this image, even for commercial purposes.

API

Public domain data for this object can also be accessed using the Met's Open Access API.

Tray with Scene from the Tale of Genji, Black lacquer with gold maki-e and mother-of-pearl inlay, Japan
Tray with Scene from the Tale of Genji, Black lacquer with gold maki-e and mother-of-pearl inlay, Japan

This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.