Sake Vessel (Heishi) with Butterflies

15th century

Not on view

Ritual sake bottles, made in pairs, were used in Shinto shrines to offer sake to the deities. Most of these sake vessels are Negoro lacquers. This heishi is black lacquer with butterflies painted in red lacquer. The pattern suggests that the sake vessel might have been used in a Bugaku music and dance performance, where butterflies are common motifs.

Artwork Details

蝶漆絵根来瓶子
Title: Sake Vessel (Heishi) with Butterflies
Period: Muromachi period (1392–1573)
Date: 15th century
Culture: Japan
Medium: Wood with black and red lacquer; gold leaf application
Dimensions: H. 12 3/4 in. (32.4 cm)
Classification: Lacquer
Credit Line: Mary Griggs Burke Collection, Gift of the Mary and Jackson Burke Foundation, 2015
Object Number: 2015.300.295
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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