Saddle (Kura) with Stylized Flowers

Saddle: Muromachi period (1392–1573), dated 1491 (Entoku 3); lacquer decoration: Edo period (1615–1868), 17th century

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 225

This light, carefully crafted saddle, dated 1491 on its reverse, might have seen use during the turbulent samurai warfare of the Muromachi period. Treasured by samurai families, saddles such as this one were both carefully preserved and also relacquered and redecorated in the Edo period to reflect contemporary tastes. The flower decoration on the pommel is inspired by Chinese brocaded silks.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

唐花蒔絵鞍
Title: Saddle (Kura) with Stylized Flowers
Period: Muromachi (1392–1573)–Edo period (1615–1868)
Date: Saddle: Muromachi period (1392–1573), dated 1491 (Entoku 3); lacquer decoration: Edo period (1615–1868), 17th century
Culture: Japan
Medium: Saddle: Gold maki-e with black lacquer decoration:Pommel: lacquered wood with gold and silver takamaki-e and hiramaki-e on black ground; seat: nashiji (“pear-skin” ground)
Dimensions: H. 13 in. (33 cm); L. 15 3/8 in. (39.1 cm)
Classification: Lacquer
Credit Line: Gift of Florence and Herbert Irving, 2015
Object Number: 2015.500.2.37
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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