Writing box (Suzuribako) with Ginkgo Leaves

2015

Not on view

While writing boxes are designed for the practical function of housing implements such as inkstones (suzuri), brushes, and ink cakes, many are also consummate examples of lacquer art lavishly decorated with gold maki-e and mother-of-pearl inlay. This exceptional box was created by Murose Kazumi, who was designated a Living National Treasure of maki-e art in 2008. In Japanese decorative arts, the ginkgo’s distinctive fan-shaped leaf has long symbolized longevity and endurance. An additional meaning associated with the Japanese characters for gingko (literally “grandfather grandson tree”) is that the fruit of the tree planted by a grandfather will be enjoyed by the grandsons.

Artwork Details

室瀬和美作公孫樹蒔絵螺鈿硯箱
Title: Writing box (Suzuribako) with Ginkgo Leaves
Artist: Murose Kazumi (Japanese, born 1950)
Period: Heisei period (1989–2019)
Date: 2015
Culture: Japan
Medium: Lacquered wood with gold and silver togidashimaki-e, hiramaki-e and mother-of-pearl inlay
Dimensions: H. 1 3/16 in. (4.6 cm); W. 10 3/16 in. (25.8 cm); D. 9 5/8 in. (24.5 cm)
Classification: Lacquer
Credit Line: William R. Appleby Fund, 2016
Object Number: 2016.573a, b
Rights and Reproduction: © Murose Kazumi
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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