Shelf for Cosmetic Boxes (Kurodana) with Wild Grapevine and Family Crest

first half 17th century

Not on view

This four-tiered shelf was likely part of a high-ranking bride’s trousseau. The kurodana was used for the display and storage of cosmetic boxes and toiletries, including the utensils necessary for tooth blackening (haguro), the sign of a married woman. This example’s black-lacquer surface features a pattern of wild grapevines and the nine-circle or star crest (kuyō mon), which might be associated with the Hosokawa family.

The couturière Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel (1883–1971) owned numerous Chinese Coromandel and Japanese gold lacquer folding screens. The contrast of their lustrous black coating, gold and silver, and inlaid decoration influenced some of her compositions.

Artwork Details

野葡萄九曜紋蒔絵黒棚
Title: Shelf for Cosmetic Boxes (Kurodana) with Wild Grapevine and Family Crest
Period: Edo period (1615–1868)
Date: first half 17th century
Culture: Japan
Medium: Lacquered wood with gold, silver hiramaki-e
Dimensions: H. 26 3/4 in. (67.9 cm); H. top shelf 14 1/2 in. (36.8 cm); W. top shelf 30 in. (76.2 cm)
Classification: Lacquer
Credit Line: Mary Griggs Burke Collection, Gift of the Mary and Jackson Burke Foundation, 2015
Object Number: 2015.300.293
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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