Hibachi with Design of Plants (from set of ten)

Currently not on view

Hibachi with Design of Plants (from set of ten)

c. 1910-1920

Tsuruta Shinsai (Wasaburō II) (Japanese, 1866–1942)

This hibachi (a brazier or handwarmer), from a set of ten, is decorated with gold and silver maki-e (sprinkled design) over a deep-red lacquer ground. The sides of the rounded form of the hibachi display seasonal flowers and plants, such as chrysanthemum, bush clover, and Chinese bellflower. Production of maki-e, a type of lacquer, began in the mid-seventeenth century. Its main characteristic is the use of gold and silver, either in powdered surface decoration or in relief called takamaki-e, and the gradations of color achieve a remarkable three-dimensional effect. The lacquer is built up through more than thirty layers, giving it a deep reflective sheen that here successfully sets off the floral motifs.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

Hibachi with Design of Plants (from set of ten)

Date:

c. 1910-1920

Artist:

Tsuruta Shinsai (Wasaburō II) (Japanese, 1866–1942)

Medium:

Lacquer on wood with gold and silver maki-e (sprinkled design), with copper liner

Dimensions:

9 1/2 x 10 3/4 inches (24.1 x 27.3 cm)

Classification:

Tools/Equipment

Credit Line:

Gift of Frederick R. McBrien III, 2007

Accession Number:

2007-182-10a,b

Geography:

Made in Japan, Asia

Context:

Period: Late Meiji Period (1868-1912) - early Taisho Period (1912-1926)

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Currently not on view